Rhodesian Cessna Lynx Courses

The Rhodesian Cessna Lynx is a twin-engine light aircraft that was used by the Rhodesian Air Force during the Rhodesian Bush War, which lasted from 1964 to 1979. The main role of the Lynx was as an intrusion aircraft that could infiltrate and attack enemy positions from low altitude. They were also used for observation and light transport. The Lynx design was based on the popular Cessna 206, which was a larger aircraft then the Cessna 180/185 series. It was modified and optimized for the Rhodesian combat environment by the addition of two 375hp Lycoming IO-720 engines (the same engine used on the A-4 Skyhawk and the OV-10 Bronco). These engines gave the Lynx a much greater speed and rate of climb than the standard 180/185. The engines enabled the Lynx to fly at altitudes up to 25,000ft (7,620m) and at speeds of up to 191 knots (220mph/354km/h). To improve the Lynx's survivability in hostile environments, the Rhodesians added extra armor to the engines and airframe, including titanium plating. The wings could mount up to five hardpoints for the addition of machine guns, rocket launchers, and bombs. Additionally, a defensive gun was installed in the right rear of the cockpit. During the course of the Bush War, the Rhodesian government purchased a total of five Lynx aircraft. These were used to great effect against guerrilla forces in the country's northeast. By the end of the war in 1979, the Lynx had become a symbol of the strength and ingenuity of the Rhodesian military. After the war, the surviving Lynx continued to fly with other armed forces until the late 1990s. Today, the Lynx is remembered as one of the most successful and iconic aircraft of the Rhodesian Bush War.