Bell AH-1 Cobra

The Bell AH‑1 Cobra, developed by Bell Textron in the early 1960s, became the United States Army’s first dedicated attack helicopter. Originating from the UH‑1 “Huey” utility platform, the Cobra’s slim, tandem‑seat fuselage and narrow profile were designed for high‑speed, low‑level combat missions. First flight occurred on 7 September 1965 and it entered service in 1967, seeing extensive action during the Vietnam War where its 20‑mm cannon, rockets and later AGM‑114 Hellfire missiles proved decisive against ground targets and fortified positions.

Key features include a powerful turboshaft engine—initially the Lycoming T53‑13 producing 1,400 shaft horsepower—providing a top speed of roughly 210 knots, and a fully articulated rotor system that offers superior maneuverability. Advanced fire‑control electronics and a modular weapons bay allow rapid re‑arming for diverse mission sets. Over the decades the airframe was upgraded into the AH‑1W SuperCobra and AH‑1Z Viper variants, extending its operational life into the 21st century.

The Cobra’s impact on aviation is profound; it established the attack‑helicopter concept, influenced designs such as the AH‑64 Apache, and demonstrated the tactical value of rotary‑wing firepower, shaping modern close‑air‑support doctrine worldwide.

Bell Textron

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