Full version: Eastern Europe’s Falcon: Czech Air Force W-3 Sokół Helicopter | RIAT 19/07/2025

Описание: #airshow #aviation #aircraft #airplane #military #militaryaircraft #riat #riat2025 #helicopter #militaryhelicopter #
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First flown in 1979, the PZL W-3 Sokół is a Polish-developed and manufactured multi-role helicopter which has seen success in a variety of roles including search and rescue (SAR), Battlefield Transport, Air Ambulance and VIP Transport. In all, 12 nations have operated the W-3 either in a military or government role, and the type remains in service with Algeria, Chile, Czech Republic, Myanmar, Philippines, Poland, South Kora and Uganda. PZL have since been acquired by AgustaWestland (now Leonardo) who continue to market the type for sale.
The Czech Air Force acquired 11 W-3 Sokółs from Poland in 1996 as a replacement for the ageing Mil Mi-2 Hoplite. In Czech service, the W-3 is used both as a military medical evacuation helicopter and as a SAR helicopter. The latter are often painted in a distinctive red and white paint scheme. In 2015, the Czech government agreed to overhaul eight of the remaining ten aircraft in operation to extend their service life rather than acquiring a replacement.