The Laviasa Puelche II

The Laviasa Puelche II is an upgraded version of the original Laviasa Puelche turboprop aircraft, developed by Argentina’s Fábrica Militar de Aviones (FMA). Like its predecessor, the Laviasa Puelche II was developed in Argentina by Fábrica Militar de Aviones (FMA). The Laviasa Puelche II represented an improved and upgraded version of the original Puelche aircraft. The Puelche II, like the original, was powered by a Turbomeca Bastan turboprop engine, which was produced under license in Argentina. It retained the high-wing configuration with twin tail booms, which gave it a distinctive appearance. Similar to its predecessor, the Laviasa Puelche II was primarily used as a research and test platform for the development of indigenous aerospace technology. The aircraft continued to feature an experimental fly-by-wire flight control system, showcasing Argentina’s efforts to advance aerospace technology. The Laviasa Puelche II was involved in flight testing and research, contributing to the aerospace knowledge and capabilities of the time. Just like the original Puelche, the Laviasa Puelche II remained a limited-production research aircraft, with only a small number built. Both the Laviasa Puelche and its upgraded version, the Puelche II, are historically significant as they represent Argentina’s endeavours in aerospace research and development during their respective eras. The Laviasa Puelche II played a role in advancing aerospace research and technology, especially in the context of flight control systems and turboprop technology. The Laviasa Puelche II, while remaining primarily a research and development aircraft, represented the continued efforts of Argentina to advance its aerospace capabilities. These aircraft are important historical artifacts in the context of Argentina’s aerospace industry.