The RAF operated 68 Wessex helicopters designated HC.Mk.2 in the troop carrying and support roles, with No.72 Squadron being the first RAF squadron to become operational on the type at RAF Odiham, near Basingstoke, Hants in 1964. 1969 saw the squadron begin its involvement in Northern Ireland with a detachment to RAF Ballykelly and then to RAF Aldergrove. It maintained this detachment until 1981when the decision was made to move the entire Squadron to Aldergrove where it remained until its disbandment in June 2002 having supported the British Army and RUC unstintingly for 33 years. The Wessex could carry 16 fully-laden troops or an underslung load comprising usually a Howitzer field gun or LandRover.
