Bell Ah-1w Super Cobra Helicopter Guide

The Bell AH-1W Super Cobra is a twin-engine, multi-role attack helicopter that has been in service with the United States Marine Corps since 1986. As a variant of the AH-1 Cobra, the Super Cobra has seen extensive combat in various parts of the world, including the Gulf War, Iraq War, and Afghanistan War. In this article, we will delve into the history, design, features, and capabilities of the Bell AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter.

History and Development

The Bell AH-1W Super Cobra was developed in the 1980s as an upgrade to the AH-1T improved Cobra. The main goal was to improve the aircraft's capabilities, particularly in the areas of firepower, survivability, and range. The Super Cobra made its first flight in 1983, and the US Marine Corps began taking delivery of the aircraft in 1986.

Design and Features

The AH-1W Super Cobra is powered by two T700-GE-401C turboshaft engines, each producing 1,800 horsepower. This provides the aircraft with a maximum speed of 227 mph (365 km/h) and a range of 311 miles (500 km). The Super Cobra has a crew of two, with the pilot sitting in the rear cockpit and the co-pilot/gunner sitting in the front cockpit.

The aircraft is equipped with a range of armament, including:

2 x 7.62mm M134 Minigun machine guns
2 x M261 19-tube Hydra rocket launchers
8 x AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
2 x AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles

The Super Cobra also features advanced avionics, including:

AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar
AN/AAQ-30 target acquisition system
AN/ALQ-144(V)3 infrared countermeasures system

Capabilities and Combat History

The Bell AH-1W Super Cobra is a highly capable attack helicopter, with a range of combat roles including:

Close air support (CAS)
Anti-tank warfare
Reconnaissance
Escort

The Super Cobra has seen extensive combat in various parts of the world, including:

Gulf War (1991)
Iraq War (2003-2011)
Afghanistan War (2001-present)

Upgrades and Modernization

The AH-1W Super Cobra has undergone several upgrades and modernization programs over the years, including:

The AH-1Z Viper upgrade program, which includes new engines, avionics, and armament
The H-1 Upgrades program, which includes new radar, electronic warfare systems, and communication systems

Operators and Export

The Bell AH-1W Super Cobra is operated by several countries, including:

United States (US Marine Corps)
Bahrain
Iran (Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force)
Japan
Jordan
South Korea
Taiwan
Turkey

Specifications

Here are the specifications of the Bell AH-1W Super Cobra:

Crew: 2
Length: 58 ft 4 in (17.8 m)
Rotor diameter: 48 ft 0 in (14.6 m)
Height: 13 ft 8 in (4.2 m)
Empty weight: 10,360 lb (4,700 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 14,750 lb (6,690 kg)
Powerplant: 2 x T700-GE-401C turboshaft engines, 1,800 hp (1,340 kW) each
Maximum speed: 227 mph (365 km/h)
Range: 311 miles (500 km)
Service ceiling: 14,000 ft (4,300 m)
Rate of climb: 2,000 ft/min (10.2 m/s)

Conclusion

The Bell AH-1W Super Cobra is a highly capable and versatile attack helicopter that has seen extensive combat in various parts of the world. With its advanced avionics, firepower, and range, the Super Cobra remains an important asset for military forces around the world.

We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions about the Bell AH-1W Super Cobra. Have you ever seen this helicopter in action? Do you think it's still relevant in modern warfare? Let us know in the comments below.

Gallery of AH-1W Super Cobra Images