330-PS-2417 (USN 708453):   Navy’s Gas Turbine Powered Helicopter In Flight.  The first successful flight of a gas turbine shaft powered helicopter was announced by the Navy on December 16, 1951.   Powered by a Boeing XT50 Gas Turbine, the helicopter experimental Kaman K-225, was developed by the Kaman Aircraft Corporation, Windsor Locks, Connecticut.  Although similar in principle to the gas turbine used to power jet planes, the K-225 installation differs in the application of power.  Instead of using the velocity of exhaust gases for direct thrust, the power is used to turn the shaft of the rotor blades.  The turbine can operate on low grade fuels, such as kerosene, or on high-octane gasoline.  William R. Murry, former U.S. Naval Aviator, was at the controls in the first flight.  (5/26/2015).
<a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/127906254@N06">National Museum of the U.S. Navy</a>
<a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/127906254@N06/18160147725/">330-PS-2417 (USN 708453)</a>