Intro
Discover the 10 types of army helicopters used today, from attack and transport to reconnaissance and medical evacuation. Learn about the versatile UH-60 Black Hawk, AH-64 Apache, and CH-47 Chinook, among others. Explore their capabilities, roles, and impact on modern warfare, and get insights into the latest advancements in military helicopter technology.
The military helicopter has come a long way since its inception in the early 20th century. From humble beginnings as observation platforms, helicopters have evolved into versatile, high-tech machines that play a crucial role in modern military operations. Here, we'll take a closer look at 10 types of army helicopters used today, highlighting their unique features, capabilities, and roles.
1. Boeing AH-64 Apache
The Boeing AH-64 Apache is a multi-role attack helicopter widely used by the US Army and other countries. With its distinctive twin-blade design and nose-mounted turret, the Apache is equipped with Hellfire missiles, rockets, and a 30mm cannon. Its advanced targeting system and agility make it a formidable force on the battlefield.
Key Features:
- Twin General Electric T700-GE-701C engines
- Top speed: 227 mph (365 km/h)
- Range: 300 miles (480 km)
2. Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk
The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a versatile, widely used transport helicopter. It can carry up to 11 troops, or be configured for medical evacuation, cargo transport, or other specialized roles. Its durability and reliability have made it a staple in many military forces.
Key Features:
- Two General Electric T700-GE-701C engines
- Top speed: 193 mph (311 km/h)
- Range: 360 miles (579 km)
3. Bell UH-1Y Venom
The Bell UH-1Y Venom is a multi-role utility helicopter used by the US Marine Corps and other countries. Its modern design and advanced avionics make it suitable for a range of tasks, including transport, medical evacuation, and reconnaissance.
Key Features:
- Two General Electric T700-GE-401C engines
- Top speed: 186 mph (299 km/h)
- Range: 210 miles (338 km)
4. Eurocopter Tiger
The Eurocopter Tiger is a multi-role attack helicopter developed by Airbus Helicopters. It's used by several European countries, including Germany, France, and Spain. Its advanced targeting system and agility make it a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
Key Features:
- Two MTR390 engines
- Top speed: 192 mph (310 km/h)
- Range: 310 miles (500 km)
5. Westland WAH-64 Apache
The Westland WAH-64 Apache is a British variant of the Boeing AH-64 Apache. It's used by the UK Army Air Corps and features several unique modifications, including a Rolls-Royce engine and a British-designed targeting system.
Key Features:
- Rolls-Royce RTM322 engine
- Top speed: 227 mph (365 km/h)
- Range: 300 miles (480 km)
6. Mil Mi-24 Hind
The Mil Mi-24 Hind is a Soviet-era attack helicopter still used by several countries, including Russia and Ukraine. Its distinctive tandem cockpit design and stub wings make it a recognizable sight on the battlefield.
Key Features:
- Two TV3-117V engines
- Top speed: 208 mph (335 km/h)
- Range: 250 miles (402 km)
7. Bell OH-58 Kiowa
The Bell OH-58 Kiowa is a reconnaissance and scout helicopter used by the US Army. Its compact size and agility make it ideal for forward reconnaissance and observation missions.
Key Features:
- Single Allison 250-C30R engine
- Top speed: 149 mph (240 km/h)
- Range: 210 miles (338 km)
8. NHIndustries NH90
The NHIndustries NH90 is a multi-role helicopter developed by a consortium of European companies. It's used by several countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, for a range of tasks, including transport, medical evacuation, and reconnaissance.
Key Features:
- Two General Electric CT7-8A engines
- Top speed: 186 mph (299 km/h)
- Range: 500 miles (805 km)
9. Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk
The Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk is a multi-role helicopter used by the US Navy and other countries. Its advanced sensors and targeting system make it ideal for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and transport missions.
Key Features:
- Two General Electric T700-GE-401C engines
- Top speed: 188 mph (303 km/h)
- Range: 420 miles (676 km)
10. Kamov Ka-52 Alligator
The Kamov Ka-52 Alligator is a Russian attack helicopter featuring a unique co-axial rotor design. Its advanced targeting system and agility make it a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
Key Features:
- Two Klimov VK-2500 engines
- Top speed: 186 mph (299 km/h)
- Range: 310 miles (500 km)
Army Helicopters Image Gallery
What is the most advanced army helicopter?
+The Boeing AH-64 Apache is considered one of the most advanced army helicopters, featuring advanced targeting systems and agility.
What is the purpose of a reconnaissance helicopter?
+A reconnaissance helicopter is used for forward reconnaissance and observation missions, providing real-time battlefield information to ground troops.
What is the difference between a transport helicopter and an attack helicopter?
+A transport helicopter is designed to carry troops, cargo, or equipment, while an attack helicopter is equipped with armaments and targeting systems for combat missions.
What is the range of a typical army helicopter?
+The range of a typical army helicopter can vary from 200 to 500 miles (320 to 805 km), depending on the model and configuration.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the 10 types of army helicopters used today. From attack and reconnaissance to transport and medical evacuation, these versatile machines play a crucial role in modern military operations.