Bell AH-1J SeaClick to EnlargeCobra
Aircrafts Background
First flown in prototype form on September 7, 1965, and named Huey
Cobra, this helicopter was first delivered to the US Army in June,
1967, and within two months the helicopter was being used operationally
in Vietnam. The Marines also operated armed Hueys in Vietnam, and their
interest in this helicopter resulted in 38 AH-1Gs being supplied from
the US Army production line in 1969.
History
The primary missions of the Cobra are helicopter Close Air Support
(CAS), escort of transport helicopters and ground convoys, armed
reconnaissance, helicopter air-to-air attack, anti-shipping operations,
and coordination and terminal control of fixed wing CAS, artillery,
mortars, and naval gunfire. It is the only western attack helicopter
with a proven air-to-air and anti-radar missile capability. The rear
seat pilot is primarily responsible for maneuvering the aircraft. The
front pilot controls the aircraft's weapons systems.
ROLE: Attack and close support helicopter
Crew: Two
Number Built: 69
Bureau Number: 15-7771
Total Landings: 6323
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: Pratt & Whitney (Canada)
T400-CP-400
Length: (rotor turning) 52 feet 11 1/2 inches
Height: 13 ft 6 1/4 in
Main Rotor Diameter: 44 ft.
Tail Rotor Diameter: 8 ft 6 in
Weight: 6,667 lbs.
Armament: One M-197 three-barrel 20mm cannon and
2200 lbs external ordnance
PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 207 mph
Service Ceiling: 11,398 ft
Range: 359 miles