Built in 1977 at Yeovil, Somerset and intend to be a 2-seat light reconnaissance helicopter powered by either a Plessey Meon turboshaft engine or one/two piston engines. Following on from experience gained during the development of remotely piloted helicopters Westland started investigations in 1977 into a light two seat helicopter that could be used for aerial reconnaissance without the need for a skilled pilot. The two crew sat side-by-side in a circular fuselage giving excellent all round visibility. Having built a mock-up in 1977 to show prospective customers, the project soon faltered due to a lack of interest or funding by the UK Ministry of Defence and in early 1979 the project was formally abandoned. The mock-up was placed in storage before eventually being presented to the Museum for preservation in 1980. It is currently under restoration and reasssembly.

British Helicopter Museum

Technical data for WG.33

Rotor diameter: 5.0m, fuselage length: 2.0m, max take-off weight: 500kg, max speed: 157km/h, cruising speed: 130km/h