In the mid-1970s, the Ecuadorean air force acquired two Aérospatiale SA.330F Pumas (1226/FAE 226 and 1227/FAE 227). Both were assigned to Ala de Combate 22 and represented the most powerful transport helicopter in operation. FAE 227 was written off on 24 December 1976, however the other example reportedly saw intensive service during the clashes of 1981, but precise details remain elusive. They were delivered in a high visibility paint scheme as depticted in the artwork, with the surviving airframe later being repainted in tropical camouflage like Super Pumas subsequently acquired by the Ecuadorian Army. ‘RESCATE’ (rescue) was applied to the sliding side doors, but sources differ if at the top or at the bottom. Inset shows the insignia of the Grupo de Rescate 221 which operated the type. (Artwork by Tom Cooper)