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Fast and manoeuvrable, the Gazelle has proved itself as one of the world's best light battlefield helicopters. Since its introduction into the Army Air Corps in 1973, Gazelles have been used in every major conflict involving British Forces from the Falklands to the Gulf Wars. Used extensively on anti-terrorist observation and troop support operations in Northern Ireland, Gazelles have also been heavily committed to NATO operations in Bosnia.
Michael Rondot's spectacularly detailed painting shows a Gazelle AH1 in action during a live firepower demonstration on Warminster Ranges, Salisbury Plain. Acting as airborne forward air controller, the Gazelle pilot is guiding rocket-firing RAF Harriers in close air support while hovering above a Challenger II tank moving into its firing position. In the background, the rolling Wiltshire hills and distinctive-shaped woods of Salisbury Plain provide a panoramic backdrop that will be familiar to all who wear the Army Flying Badge.
Published in a very small limited edition, sales of this print edition will benefit The Army Benevolent Fund and Exeter House, a Salisbury school for disabled children with special needs.
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