Highlights
- Ex-Combat Helicopter Force support Defender
- One of seven documented in a military book
- Used to jump start and service helicopters
- Comes with valuable correct Penman trailer
- Only 51,524 miles from new
- Four owners from new
The Appeal
The CHF sticker attached to the rear of this ex-MoD Defender indicates that it’s something special and this was one of a batch of seven military-spec Land Rovers that were tasked with supporting the Combat Helicopter Force. This is documented in the included book Land Rovers In British Military Service.
It comes complete with an immaculate period correct Penman trailer that would also have been used in service and still retains its roof-mounted helicopter servicing platform and it’s 28V 90A second alternator and side plug system that was designed to power up a helicopter.
It’s a rare find and in its original condition as it was used in service.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C in owner’s name
- Only 4 owners from new
- In service at RAF St Mawgan and RAF Odiham until 2015
- In service reg number was 59KK90
- Third owner was ex Combat Helicopter Force and painstakingly sourced vehicle
- MoT until April 2023
- New discs, pads and calipers in 2021
- Last oil service in February 2022
- Rear chassis section and bumper replaced while in service
The Interior
- Wonderfully basic military-spec interior with repainted floors
- Black vinyl seat trim and steering wheel free from rips or tears
- Switchgear all said to work fine
- Basic instrumentation km speedo, fuel gauge, water temp and oil temp
- Trailer electrics can be controlled from cab
- Military equipment on dash and central 100A ammeter
- Chassis plate details ‘Truck Utility Helisupport’ on driver’s seat base
- Rear electrical systems and battery box remain
- Two rear bench seats with four lap belts added to rear
- Durable rubber mat to rear and carpeted roof to prevent condensation
The Exterior
- Military spec fisheye Lucas indicators and sidelights uncracked
- Correct CHF stickers and ‘Aircraft Safety’ decals
- Unique roof-mounted work platform for helicopter servicing (ideal for doing hedges!)
- Two side lockers for jerrycans – one labelled for water, the other for diesel
- Ex-military shovel, pick axe head and handle attached to rear of vehicle
- Slight corrosion to lower edge of side doors
- Military spec Wolf wheels (with matching plate on interior detailing torque specs)
- Michelin 7.50 R16C tyres all dated 2020 or 2021 on Land Rover with excellent tread
- Orange Helistart Supply socket and push buttons on side of vehicle
- Underside has undersealed chassis and minor surface rust on a few components
- Comes complete with matching 1750kg Penman trailer in excellent condition
- Penman trailer has matching Michelin tyres also with lots of tread
The Mechanics
- 24V military electrics still fitted
- Secondary 90A 28V alternator designed to recharge battery bank after a helicopter start
- 2.5-litre diesel engine starts and runs as it should
- Gearbox oil changed in 2021
- Engine bay is in honest working condition with light surface rust to minor components
- Receipts for £2,832.09 worth of servicing since May 2021
- Said to drive well with no known issues
Summary
This is a fabulous piece of British Military Aviation history that was used to service and power up the UK helicopter fleet in Cornwall and has a documented history. It has the patina of use and is in fully working condition with no pressing work needed. The current owner is keen for it to go to fellow Land Rover enthusiast who will love and preserve it in working condition.
It’s all ready for you to enjoy some summer fun, with your arm out of the window getting the traditional Land Rover suntan on one arm. If you already own a helicopter, this is the ultimate mobile jumpstarter!
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