AH-1Z Cobra
Attack Helicopter / 3,626 shp / 18,500 lbs / Two Turboshafts
Year: Introduced 2010 (U.S. Marine Corps IOC)
Role: Attack Helicopter / Close Air Support / Armed Reconnaissance
Crew: 2 (Pilot & Co-Pilot/Gunner)
Engine: 2 × General Electric T700-GE-401C turboshafts
Power: 1,813 shp (1,352 kW) each; 3,626 shp (2,704 kW) total
Top Speed: ~255 mph (411 km/h)
Combat Radius: ~150 mi (241 km)
Ferry Range: ~425 mi (685 km)
Service Ceiling: ~20,000 ft (6,100 m)
Rate of Climb: ~2,790 ft/min (14.2 m/s)
Empty Weight: ~12,000 lbs (5,443 kg)
Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 18,500 lbs (8,391 kg)
Length: 58.3 ft (17.8 m) (rotors turning)
Rotor Diameter: 48 ft (14.6 m)
Armament: 1× 20 mm M197 three-barrel cannon; AGM-114 Hellfire, APKWS II 70 mm guided rockets, Hydra 70 rockets, AIM-9 Sidewinder, and external fuel tanks
Gallery
The Bell AH-1Z Viper is the U.S. Marine Corps’ premier attack helicopter, combining exceptional firepower, survivability, and expeditionary capability in a modern twin-engine platform. Developed as the ultimate evolution of the Cobra family, the AH-1Z features a four-bladed composite rotor system, advanced glass cockpit, Target Sight System, and integrated precision weapons. Designed for close air support, armed reconnaissance, escort, and anti-armor missions, it can operate effectively from amphibious assault ships and austere forward bases. With unmatched versatility and combat-proven reliability, the AH-1Z provides Marine Air-Ground Task Forces with decisive battlefield dominance in day, night, and adverse weather operations.
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