Aircraft Data Sheet: WS-58 Wessex MK 1 (1957)

First flight:	17th May 1957.
Rotor diameter:	17.07m/56ft 0ins
Length:	20.04m/65ft 9ins
Max weight:	5,715 kg/12,600
Max speed:	212 kph/115knots
Power:	One 1,450shp/1,085kW Napier Gazelle 161 (N Ga 13 Turboshaft)
Accommodation:	Pilot plus three (ASW)
No Built:	167

The adoption of the Sikorsky S-58 and its complete re-design, served to strengthen the Westland design team even further. The result was a general purpose and anti-submarine helicopter, using the Sikorsky S-58 airframe and transmission, modified to accept a turboshaft engine, full autopilot and Active Dunking Sonar for service with the Royal Navy. A number of Mk 1 aircraft were adapted to operate in the commando role.