AH-1F Cobra Attack Helicopter

Our Aircraft

The Cobra was developed out requirement of the Army to have a specialized aircraft for specialized fire suppression and armed escort during the Vietnam War. The Bell UH-1 "Huey" was modified and dedicated to this role, but the Huey’s aircraft design was not ideal for this mission. The first Cobras reached Vietnam in August 1966. They were armed with a variety of weapons systems depending on the mission. Usually 2.75" rocket pods were mounted to the stub wings and machine guns in the nose. AH-1 Cobras were often teamed with the OH-6 "LOACH" observation helicopter to seek out and destroy enemy personnel and equipment in Vietnam. After the Vietnam war Cobras were improved and modified to carry anti tank missiles. In Europe, until the fall of the Soviet Union, Cobras served as the NATOs first line defense against the overwhelming numbers of Soviet tanks. The AH-1 also served in the Gulf War as a potent attack helicopter.


Specifications

Crew: 2 Pilots (pilot and pilot/gunner)

Powerplant: Lycoming T53-L-703 (1800 shp)

Cruise Speed: 140 Kt

Range: 315 miles

Armament: 2.75 " rocket pods

Nose mounted 20 mm cannon

TOW (anti-tank) missiles