Few helicopters can claim to have supported military operations, and then survived into civilian ownership. Sioux XW180 is one such aircraft, and we can now prove it.
Taking to the skies for the first time on 24th October 1968, XW180 was immediately assigned to HQ 1 Wing Army Air Corps. Within days, it had left Westland's factory at Yeovil, travelling via Middle Wallop before crossing to Detmold, West Germany.
The aircraft was officially delivered on 5th November 1968, alongside XW179. (It’s possible that it was delivered to 2 Royal Tank Regiment Air Troop, although this has not been confirmed).
Its military career was closely tied to Britain's armoured forces in Germany. On 24th October 1969, the aircraft became part of the newly formed 657 Aviation Squadron AAC, supporting 7 Armoured Brigade from Soltau. Sioux XW180 equipped with 6 Scouts and 6 other Sioux helicopters.
By 3rd January 1973, XW180 was serving with 657 Squadron AAC at Soltau, carrying the squadron code "B". During this period, the squadron's Sioux detachments undertook two operational tours in Ballykelly, Northern Ireland, reflecting the Army Air Corps' vital role during the troubles.
The helicopter's service continued when it transferred to 659 Squadron AAC at Detmold in January 1976. Just months later, it deployed again to Northern Ireland, this time operating from Aldergrove. In August of the same year, XW180 transferred to 662 Squadron AAC at Waterloo Barracks, Münster.
After nearly a decade of military service, XW180 was withdrawn and placed into reserve stock at RAF Wroughton on 4 February 1977. Unlike many military aircraft that disappeared into scrap yards, XW180 found a second life. It was sold into private ownership, reported as preserved in Germany by 1979, and in March 1980 entered the UK civil register as G-BHNV.
Photographs from this era show the aircraft carrying the distinctive Jerboa flash, the emblem of the British Forces.
The photograph shows a Sioux coded 'B' as XW180 was when it was in Ballykelly, so we believe that it is the same aircraft.
A huge thank you to Henry and the team at the Army Flying Museum for conducting the research.
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