W-3 Sokol

• Twin-turboshaft transport helicopter • Exports • Multi-role

In 1979, with nearly 20 years’ experience of building Mil-designed hclicoptors behind it, Poland’s PZL Swidnik flew the first prototype of a new design designated W-3 and named Sok6l, or ’Falcon’. There was a long series of tethered tests and extensive design changes before the second prototypo flew in May 1982, and it was another three years before production began. Since then, PZL has developed several specialised variants for military and civil applications.