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What is the Westland Commando helicopter?

The Westland Commando is a strong helicopter built in Britain. It was designed to carry groups of soldiers and heavy supplies across land. It helped armies move people quickly to where they were needed most.

What was its main role for Qatar?

Qatar used these helicopters for many different jobs. They used them to move troops and to carry important cargo. These machines also flew over the ocean to watch for ships near their coast.

How was this helicopter used during the Gulf War?

During the Gulf War, the helicopters played a very important part for Qatar. Pilots flew patrols to keep the coastline safe from danger. They also moved people and gear around to make sure the military had what it needed to work.

What makes the Westland Commando special compared to other helicopters?

This helicopter is based on the famous Sea King model. Builders took off the large boat floats that helped the Sea King land on water. Removing those parts made the helicopter lighter so it could hold more soldiers inside.

When did Qatar start using the Westland Commando?

Qatar first started buying these helicopters back in the 1970s. They liked how well the machines worked, so they bought more throughout the 1980s. These aircraft stayed in service for many years to help protect the country.

Home Library QatarWestland Commando

Transport and Utility Helicopter

Westland Commando

A British-built transport helicopter used to carry soldiers and patrol coastal waters.

Qatar Introduced 1974 Westland HelicoptersRole: Tactical transport helicopter

Specifications

Top Speed

144 mph

Range

764 miles

Crew

Capacity

Up to 28 troops

History

The Westland Commando was an upgraded British variant of the Sea King helicopter, built without boat floats so it could carry ground troops. Qatar bought several variants in the 1970s and 1980s for utility, troop transport, and anti-ship strikes.

During the Gulf War, Qatari Commandos carried out maritime patrol flights and logistics tasks. They helped move personnel and watched the coastline for sea-based threats throughout the conflict.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Cold War Gulf War

Combat Medals & Awards

Service medal

Armed Forces Golden Jubilee Medal

2021

Celebrates fifty years of history, service, and growth of the Qatar Armed Forces from 1971 to 2021.

Campaign medal

Battle of Khafji Commemorative Medal

1991

Commemorates the service of Qatari troops who engaged enemy armored units at Khafji in 1991.

Campaign medal

Kuwait Liberation Medal (Qatar)

1991

Awarded to Qatari troops who took part in liberating Kuwait during the 1991 Persian Gulf War.

Distinguished service decoration

Medal for Outstanding Service

1978

This medal is presented to service members who carry out remarkable leadership, duty, and support for the nation.

Merit decoration

Medal of Military Cooperation

1992

This decoration is granted for strengthening defense partnerships between Qatar and allied armed forces.

Valor decoration

Medal of Military Courage

1992

Presented to soldiers who display exceptional bravery while confronting armed hostiles during military missions.

Merit decoration

Military Duty Medal

1992

A medal created to reward soldiers who carry out challenging operational tasks with fidelity and hard work.

Service medal

Military Long Service and Good Conduct Medal

1992

Awarded to loyal service members who dedicate many years of honorable, well-behaved service to the military.

Sources

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