The MBB-105 was developed in the 1960s along traditional lines but with a new rigid rotor system. It became very popular in civil and military roles and has been manufactured in Germany, Spain, Canada and Indonesia.

The MBB-105 was initially developed as a civil utility specialising in the air taxi and VIP transport roles.

However, it’s rigid rotor also gave it the agility necessary for many military roles.

It’s first flight took place on 16 February 1967 and the basic version, the 105C, entered service in 1975.

The German Army became its largest operator with 100 utility and over 100 anti-tank versions.

It has also been used in other military roles including search and rescue and reconnaissance.

It became the basis for development of a range of more advanced helicopters.

This model represents a MBB-105M flying with the German Army in the 1980s.

Airfix 1:72 kit completed by Leigh Edmonds in January 1983