Bell 206 of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Aviation

The Bell 206, operating in the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Aviation, entered service through an unexpected partnership with the Italian manufacturer Agusta, which produced the model under licence in the late 1970s. Iran first acquired the light utility helicopter shortly before the 1979 Revolution, using it for liaison, reconnaissance and medical evacuation duties. Agusta‑built airframes incorporated several local modifications, including reinforced transmission components and a desert‑tolerant air‑conditioning system, allowing reliable performance in the harsh Iranian climate. The aircraft’s compact three‑bladed main rotor, turboshaft engine delivering roughly 420 shaft‑horsepower, and clean aerodynamic shape give it a maximum speed of about 210 km/h and a service ceiling near 4,600 m. Its spacious cabin can carry up to eight passengers or a mix of troops and cargo, while its low operating cost and simple maintenance requirements make it ideal for the Army’s dispersed bases across mountainous and arid regions. Over four decades, the Bell 206 has become a workhorse of Iran’s rotary fleet, supporting border patrol, counter‑insurgency and disaster‑relief missions. Its longevity underscores the aircraft’s adaptability and highlights the strategic value of licensed production in extending the capabilities of a modest aviation force.