History
Four SA342L (not SA342K) Gazelles delivered in 1981, followed by three more in 1983-84. These helicopters could be armed with HOT anti-tank missiles, rockets or gun pods. Used by 8 Squadron in the anti-tank and gunship role. In 2007 nine additional examples were obtained from the UAE Air Force. Still in their desert yellow camouflage, they were supplied without weapons. Lebanese AF personnel soon added gun and rocket pods, and later retro-fitted HOT missiles taken from the first batch of Gazelles.
Individual Details
| Serial | c/no. | Prev. Identity | Delivered | Fate/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L-801 | 1824 | 1981 | Preserved Rayak Aug 2008 | |
| L-802 | 1826 | 1981 | stored Rayak Feb 2006 | |
| L-803 | 1827? | 1981 | ||
| L-804 | 1823? | 1981 | ||
| L-805 | 2016 | 1983 | ||
| L-806 | 2017 | 1983 | ||
| L-807 | 2021 | 1984 | stored Rayak Feb 2006 | |
| L-808 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-809 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-810 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-811 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-812 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-813 | 1759 | 137 | 2007 | ex UAEAF |
| L-814 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-815 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-816 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-817 | 2007 | ex UAEAF | ||
| L-818 | 2007 | ex UAEAF |
More Information
References
- Scramble
- Air Forces Monthly
- World Air Power Journal
- International Air Power Review
- World Air Forces Directory 2009/2010 (Mach III)
- Airliners.net Forum
- The Independent Guide to the Lebanese Air Force
Other Sources
To be added.