MICHAEL
RONDOT - GAZELLE OVER SALISBURY PLAIN
Fast
and maneuverable, the Gazelle has proved itself as one of
the world's best light battlefield helicopters. Since its
introduction into the Army Air Corps in 1973, Gazelles have
been used in every major conflict involving British Forces
from the Falklands to the Gulf Wars. Used extensively on anti-terrorist
observation and troop support operations in Northern Ireland,
Gazelles have also been heavily committed to NATO operations
in Bosnia.
Michael
Rondot's spectacularly detailed painting shows a Gazelle AHI
in action during a live firepower demonstration on Warminster
Ranges, Salisbury Plain. Acting as airborne forward air controller,
the Gazelle pilot is guiding rocket-firing RAF Harriers in
close air support while hovering above a Challenger II tank
moving into its firing position. In the background, the rolling
Wiltshire hills and distinctive-shaped woods of Salisbury
Plain provide a panoramic backdrop that will be familiar to
all who wear the Army Flying Badge.
Published
in a very small limited edition of signed and numbered prints,
sales of this print edition will benefit The Army Benevolent
Fund and Exeter House, a Salisbury school for disabled children
with special needs.
