Eurocopter EC665 Tiger

Summary

Description

The Eurocopter Tiger is a multirole attack helicopter that was jointly developed by Germany and France. The project was initiated in the late 1980s, with the aim of creating a modern attack helicopter to meet the requirements of both the German Army and the French Armed Forces. The Eurocopter Group, now Airbus Helicopters, led the development. The first prototype flew in April 1991, and the helicopter was introduced into service in 2003. The Eurocopter Tiger has also been adopted by the Spanish and Australian armed forces.

The development of the Eurocopter Tiger was a complex, multi-year endeavor that sought to produce a helicopter with advanced avionics, high maneuverability, and robust attack capabilities. Collaboration between France and Germany was central to this project, both in terms of financial investment and engineering expertise. Engineers aimed to create a helicopter that would be lighter than its American counterparts like the AH-64 Apache, prioritizing agility and reduced operating costs.

One of the notable aspects of the Tiger's design is its incorporation of stealth technology. The helicopter features angular facets and flat surfaces that are intended to reduce its radar cross-section. Moreover, the use of composite materials not only contributes to the aircraft’s stealth profile but also enhances its overall durability.

In terms of armament, the Tiger can be equipped with a variety of weapons including anti-tank missiles, unguided rockets, and a 30mm cannon. This allows for a modular approach to warfare, enabling the helicopter to be configured for different mission profiles, such as air-to-air combat, ground attack, or reconnaissance.

The avionics suite is another standout feature, incorporating a glass cockpit, advanced navigation systems, and a state-of-the-art targeting system. A crew of two — a pilot and a gunner — can operate the helicopter, benefiting from an array of electronic aids that improve situational awareness and mission effectiveness.

Armament

The Eurocopter Tiger is designed to be modular in its weapon configurations:

• 30mm Cannon: The Tiger is equipped with a nose-mounted 30mm Nexter (formerly GIAT) cannon, which can swivel in both azimuth and elevation. This is effective against both ground-based and aerial targets and provides the Tiger with a substantial amount of firepower at close ranges.
• Anti-Tank Missiles: One of its primary armaments is the anti-tank guided missile. For example, the French version commonly employs the AGM-114 Hellfire, while the German version might use the PARS 3 LR. These missiles are laser-guided and capable of destroying armored vehicles from several kilometers away.
• Unguided Rockets: The Tiger can also carry unguided rockets like the SNEB 68mm rockets, typically housed in pods. These are effective against softer targets like enemy infantry or unarmored vehicles.
• Air-to-Air Missiles: Though not primarily designed for air-to-air combat, the Tiger can be equipped with short-range air-to-air missiles such as the Mistral or the AIM-92 Stinger, providing it with the capability to engage with enemy helicopters or low-flying aircraft.

Operational history

The Eurocopter Tiger's operational history officially began when it entered service with the French and German armed forces in 2003. Since then, it has seen deployment in various conflict zones and has been adopted by several other countries, including Spain and Australia.

• Afghanistan: The German Army deployed Tiger helicopters as part of their ISAF contribution in Afghanistan. The helicopters were used mainly in reconnaissance and support roles.
• Libya: French Tiger helicopters were deployed in 2011 during Operation Harmattan, as part of the international intervention in Libya. They were used primarily for ground attack missions against Libyan armor and fortifications.
• Mali: France deployed its Tiger helicopters in 2013 for Operation Serval, aimed at driving out Islamist militants in Northern Mali. The Tigers were used for both attack and escort missions, supporting ground troops and other aircraft.
• Central African Republic: The Tiger has also seen service in peacekeeping operations, including deployments in the Central African Republic as part of broader UN missions.
• Australian Service: The Australian Army adopted a modified version of the Tiger, known as the ARH Tiger, for use in reconnaissance and support roles. However, the fleet faced multiple technical issues and a review of their effectiveness and future has been ongoing.

Variants

• Tiger KHT (Kampfhubschrauber Tiger): Primarily used by the German Army, this is a multi-role fire support helicopter. It lacks the integrated mast-mounted sight, which the French version has, but is equipped with anti-tank missiles, 68mm rockets, and a 12.7mm gun pod.
• Tiger HAP (Hélicoptère d'Appui Protection): This is the French Army's air-to-air combat and fire support version. It is armed with 68mm rockets and can be equipped with Mistral air-to-air missiles. It also features a 30mm gun turret.
• Tiger HAD (Hélicoptère d'Appui Destruction): An upgraded version of the HAP, it has enhanced anti-tank capabilities and is used by both the French and Spanish armed forces. It can carry the more powerful AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and has an uprated engine for better performance.
• Tiger ARH (Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter): Customized for the Australian Army, this variant is based on the Tiger HAP but includes modifications like new communications systems, a new FLIR sensor, and upgraded MTR390 engines.

Technical specifications

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	France	69
	Germany	55
	Spain	23
	Australia	22

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

All operators

Australia • Germany • Spain • France

Armament

Missiles payload:

• Air-to-Air Short-Range Mistral

Photo of EC665 Tiger