Airfix 04056 Westland Sea King HC.4 – plastic model helicopter in 1:72 scale

The Airfix 04056 kit represents a highly detailed Westland Sea King HC.4 transport and assault helicopter in the popular 1:72 scale. The product is aimed at modelers who appreciate not only historical accuracy but also a high level of detail characteristic of Airfix models. The plastic model kit does not include glue or paints, allowing builders to choose their own materials according to their needs and preferences.

Historical Information and Usage

The Westland Sea King HC.4 is the British version of the rescue and transport helicopter, used primarily by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. The HC.4 model was based on the American Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King, but was produced under license in the UK by Westland. The HC.4 variant, also known as the Commando, entered service in 1980. These helicopters played a key role during such conflicts as the Falklands War (1982), Operation "Granby" during the First Gulf War, and missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, until the end of their service around 2016. Adapted for troop and equipment transport as well as medical evacuation, they were fitted with equipment enabling operations from ships and in difficult field conditions.

Kit Features

• Scale: 1:72 – ideal for building detailed aircraft collections.
• Country of use: United Kingdom (Royal Navy, Royal Marines).
• Historical period: modern era (from the 1980s to about 2016).
• Material: high-quality plastic with precisely rendered surface details, panels, and riveting.
• Components: includes crisply molded parts, clear cockpit canopy, and decals for completing several painting and marking variants.
• Product category: plastic model kit.

Who is this model recommended for?

Airfix 04056 Westland Sea King HC.4 is recommended for both intermediate and advanced aircraft modelers and military helicopter collectors. This model is perfect as part of a diorama depicting modern military operations. The assembly difficulty is rated 3 on a 5-point scale – it requires basic modeling skills, sanding, and painting, but the clear instructions make the work easier. With its authentic representation, the Sea King HC.4 is an excellent choice for any aviation and military history enthusiast.