Whisky is what’s called a ‘mutant vehicle’ or a blend of one or more unlikely vehicle types. In this case VH-WTF is a former Bell Jet Ranger air frame, various bits of Ford Falcon running gear and salvaged VTOL ducted fan rotors from the wreck of an AT-99 crashed on the planet of Pandora.
What was Whisky before she became a mutant vehicle?
The history of VH-WTF as far as we can make it goes as follows:
1) A fully functional helicopter 2) A non-functioning static prop involved in helicopter refuel training 3) A prop for an interactive virtual reality experiment/art installation 4) A mutant vehicle for Blazing Swan 2016
How did you end up with Whisky?
Legend has it that the wife of the artist mentioned above got very tired having a helicopter parked in her driveway so VH-WTF was gifted to the Blazing Swan community (we can neither confirm nor deny that a little bit of pestering may have been involved).
How does Whisky move and how fast does she go?
Whisky has a 7.5 horsepower petrol engine that powers a hydraulic drive connected to the rear axle and wheels of a Ford Falcon. Last time we competed on the dragstrip, VH-WTF clocked about 5 kilometres per hour (slow walking pace). She moves forward and reverse without gears and has no need for brakes as once the hydraulic shifter is disengaged she stops of her own accord. The hydraulic drive also ensures she has a LOT of power for most situations.
How many passengers does Whisky carry?
Three at a pinch in the rear cabin as the forward cabin is reserved for the Aircraft Officer (i.e. pilot) and Crew Chief. VH-WTF needs a crew of two as two sets of Mark 1 Eyeballs are required to safely navigate during her low flying activities.
How does Whisky move between around when not on flight operations?
VH-WTF fits reasonably well onto the back of a dual axel car trailer. In some case the skids may need to be removed before transport to clear the sides of the trailer.
Why is Whisky called a 'Thirst Aid' helicopter?
VH-WTF has two liquid dispensing outlets (aka beer taps) attached to the rear of the starboard fuselage. These are in turn attached to two large gravity fed vats stored inside the luggage compartment at the rear of the air frame. These can be filled with a variety of beverages to help re-hydrate the patrons at any event.
What sort of Audio Visual gear does Whisky have?
VH-WTF can be fitted with an internal intercom system so passengers and crew can easily talk to each (as with any helicopter, the engine can be quite loud). Whisky can also be fitted with a PA system for voice or audio playback...great for scaring the enemy when on a an attack approach!
What weapons, such as flame projectors, does Whisky have?
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