Bell AH-1S HueyCobra

The Bell AH-1S Huey‑Cobra, developed by Bell Textron, is the direct evolution of the United States Army’s first dedicated attack helicopter. First flown in 1967 as the AH‑1G, the airframe was extensively upgraded during the 1970s, culminating in the AH‑1S variant that entered service in 1978. The AH‑1S introduced a powerful General Electric T400 turboshaft engine delivering 1,400 shp, a new four‑blade rotor system, and an advanced avionics suite that included a digital fire‑control computer, night‑vision capable FLIR, and a heads‑up display for the pilot. Armament flexibility was a hallmark: a 20 mm M197 cannon mounted on a swivel turret, up to eight AGM‑114 Hellfire missiles, 2.75‑inch Hydra rockets, and external stores could be carried on under‑wing pylons. Structural reinforcements allowed higher maneuverability and greater payload while retaining the iconic “Huey” fuselage. The AH‑1S proved decisive in the Vietnam conflict’s later stages and later in the Gulf War, where its ability to provide close air support and anti‑armor fire shaped modern rotary‑wing combat doctrine. Its success paved the way for subsequent Cobra variants and cemented Bell Textron’s reputation as a premier attack‑helicopter manufacturer.

Bell Textron

Bell AH-1S HueyCobra

Classification

Design & Classification