Focke-Achgelis FA 223 Drache

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Fa 223 V 11 during tests in Travemünde
Fa 223 V 11 during tests in Travemünde

The Focke-Achgelis FA 223 Drache (Dragon) was a helicopter that was developed by Germany during World War II, notable for being the first helicopter to attain production status. Allied offensive actions limited production, and approximately 20 were actually produced. The aircraft was powered by a 1,000 horsepower radial engine (Bramo 323) which drove two triple-bladed 39 foot rotors, each mounted on twin booms on either side of the 40 foot long cylindrical fuselage.The aircraft was able to reach impressive speed, of up to 115 mph and heights of up to 23,000 feet. The Dragon, as the aircraft came to be known, could transport loads up to 2,200 lbs. at slower speeds and lower altitudes. During WWII one of these aircraft is said to performed the first helicopter air medi-vacs. A captured aircraft was the first helicopter to cross the English Channel.

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