Kaman K-225


The Kaman K-225 was an American experimental helicopter developed by Kaman Aircraft. One example was modified to become the world's first gas turbine-powered helicopter.

Design and development

The K-125 was Charles Kaman's first helicopter, which utilized intermeshing rotors and Kaman's patented servo-flap stability control. The K-125 first flew on 15 January 1947.
The K-190 and K-225 were an improved versions of the K-125, which first flew in April and July 1949 respectively. The U.S. Navy bought two and the Coast Guard one for $25,000 each. The United States Air Force evaluated one K-225 with the designation YH-22.
A modified K-225 equipped with a Boeing 502 turboshaft engine became the world's first gas turbine- powered helicopter in December 1951. This aircraft is now at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
A standard K-225 is preserved in the New England Air Museum at Windsor Locks Connecticut.

Variants

;K-125 : first prototype
;K-190 : improved prototype version of K-125 and licensed in April 1949
;K-225 : improved prototype version of K-125 and licensed in July 1949
;YH-22 : United States Aircraft designation for one K-225 bought for evaluation.

Specifications (K-225)