Bell AH-1 Cobra

Summary

Description

The AH-1 Cobra is an attack helicopter originally developed by Bell Helicopter for the United States Army. Its development began in the early 1960s, with the aim of producing a dedicated gunship that could provide close air support and armed escort for ground troops. It was officially introduced in 1967 and played a significant role in the Vietnam War. The design was based on the UH-1 Iroquois, also known as the "Huey," but streamlined for better speed and agility.

The AH-1 Cobra features a tandem-seat cockpit, with the pilot in the rear and the co-pilot/gunner in the front. This narrow, stepped configuration reduces the helicopter's visual and radar profile, making it less susceptible to enemy fire. It's equipped with a variety of armaments, which can include a 20mm M197 three-barreled Gatling cannon, rocket pods, and anti-tank missiles. The helicopter is also designed for improved speed and agility, thanks in part to its two-blade main and tail rotors.

The airframe is relatively slender, which not only helps in reducing drag but also makes it a smaller target. Over the years, various versions of the AH-1 have been introduced, incorporating improvements in avionics, armaments, and engines. Some later models, such as the AH-1W SuperCobra and AH-1Z Viper, have even adopted four-blade rotor systems for improved performance.

Armament

The armament of the AH-1 Cobra varies depending on the model, but some common features across different variants include:

• A nose-mounted 20mm M197 three-barreled Gatling gun, which can be rotated and elevated to engage various targets.
• 2.75-inch (70 mm) rockets: Typically housed in launchers that can carry 7 or 19 rockets, these are used for both anti-armor and anti-personnel roles.
• TOW (Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided) Missiles: For anti-tank operations, often mounted on the outboard hardpoints.
• Hellfire Missiles: Featured in later models like the AH-1W SuperCobra and AH-1Z Viper, these are laser-guided missiles mainly used for anti-armor tasks.
• Additional munitions like cluster bombs and even mine dispensers can also be fitted, depending on the mission requirement.

The armaments are modular, allowing for a variety of configurations tailored to specific mission profiles. The Cobra's front seat is usually occupied by the gunner, who has control over most of the weapons systems, while the pilot in the rear seat focuses on navigation and flying the aircraft.

Operational history

The AH-1 Cobra has a lengthy and varied operational history spanning several decades and multiple conflicts. Here are some key highlights:

• Vietnam War (1967-1973): The AH-1G, the initial production model, made its combat debut in Vietnam. It was used primarily for close air support, armed escort, and reconnaissance. The Cobra was effective in these roles and significantly helped in reducing casualties among ground forces.
• Operation Urgent Fury, Grenada (1983): The AH-1 participated in the U.S.-led invasion of Grenada, providing fire support and escort duties.
• Operation Just Cause, Panama (1989): Cobras were used for various support roles during the U.S. military action in Panama aimed at overthrowing dictator Manuel Noriega.
• Gulf War (1990-1991): The AH-1 played a significant role, particularly the AH-1F and AH-1W SuperCobra variants, which were deployed for anti-armor and fire support roles. They destroyed a considerable number of Iraqi armored vehicles.
• Balkans (1990s): AH-1 Cobras participated in various operations in the Balkans, providing fire support during the breakup of Yugoslavia.
• Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011): Although largely supplanted by the AH-64 Apache, Cobras still provided fire support and armed reconnaissance. The AH-1W SuperCobra was used predominantly by the U.S. Marine Corps.
• Afghanistan (2001-2021): Later variants like the AH-1W SuperCobra and AH-1Z Viper have been used in Afghanistan, focusing on close air support and armed reconnaissance.
• Foreign Operations: Israel used modified AH-1 Cobras during the 1982 Lebanon War and in subsequent conflicts. Turkey has employed its Cobras in anti-insurgency roles, particularly against Kurdish militants.

Variants

• AH-1G HueyCobra: The initial production model that saw action in the Vietnam War. Primarily armed with 2.75-inch rockets and a turret-mounted 7.62mm minigun.
• AH-1Q: Introduced TOW anti-tank missiles and associated targeting systems.
• AH-1S: Featured upgrades like a more powerful engine and improved armament, including the option for a 20mm cannon.
• AH-1E: Known as the "Enhanced Cobra," focused on improving anti-armor capabilities.
• AH-1F: Incorporated all the upgrades from previous models, including an infrared jammer, laser rangefinder, and advanced avionics.
• AH-1W SuperCobra: A twin-engine version with more potent engines, the capability to fire Hellfire missiles, and advanced electronic countermeasures. Used extensively by the U.S. Marine Corps.
• AH-1Z Viper: The latest variant, introduced in 2010, and featuring a four-blade composite rotor system, improved avionics, and the ability to carry a wide variety of modern munitions including AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles.

Foreign variants and upgrades also exist, such as the Turkish TAH-1P/S, which feature indigenous systems and weaponry.

Technical specifications

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	United States	159
	South Korea	76
	Japan	71
	Taiwan	62
	Turkey	53
	Pakistan	50
	Jordan	44
	Bahrain	36 (+6)
	Iran	12
	Thailand	7
	Czech Republic	4
	Kenya	2
	Philippines	1
	Romania	0 (+24)
	Nigeria	0 (+12)

Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.

All operators

Bahrain • Czech Republic • Iran • Israel • Jordan • Japan • Kenya • South Korea • Nigeria • Pakistan • Philippines • Romania • Thailand • Turkey • Taiwan • United States

Armament

Missiles payload:

• Anti-Tank Lockheed-Martin AGM-114 Hellfire
• Air-to-Surface Lockheed-Martin AGM-179 JAGM
• Air-to-Air Short-Range Raytheon AIM-9 Sidewinder

Photo of AH-1 Cobra

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