STORY
BY:
MICHAŁ
PIEKARSKI
IMAGE:
POWER
Helicopters have a special space in the history of Polish avia-
tion, both when it comes to the military, as well as the civil do-
main. The first work undertaken with regard to such aircraft
commenced at the Institute of Aviation, right after WWII. And
this happened despite the huge economic hardships. In 1949,
the build process was finalized concerning the first experimen-
tal helicopter, designated SP-GIL. It made its maiden flight in
1950. Then, work was undertaken to build a utility helicopter
that could potentially be operated in military and civil roles, na-
med BŻ-4 Żuk. That effort resulted in a prototype that made its
SUMMER 2023 WAS FULL OF EVENTS TIED TO THE HELICOPTER PROCUREMENTS MADE BY THE POLISH
ARMED FORCES. RIGHT BEFORE THE POLISH ARMED FORCES DAY, THE FIRST AW101 HELICOPTERS
FOR THE POLISH NAVY'S AVIATION BRIGADE. IT WAS ALSO ANNOUNCED THAT NEGOTIATION WOULD
BEGIN, ON THE PROCUREMENT OF MORE HELICOPTERS AS SUCH, ALONG WITH THE S70I PLATFORM
FOR THE AIR-MOBILE UNITS. OTHER PROCUREMENT PROCEDURES ARE ALSO UNDERWAY. HENCE IT
WOULD BE DESIRABLE TO GET A CLEAR PICTURE OF THIS AREA - ALSO POINTING OUT CONTROVERSIES
OR DOUBTS.
HELICOPTER MERRY-GO-ROUND
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