Bell AH-1W SuperCobra

The Bell AH‑1W SuperCobra, produced by Bell Textron, is an evolution of the legendary Huey gunship that entered service with the United States Marine Corps in 1976. Developed from the AH‑1J, the SuperCobra incorporated a more powerful General Electric T700‑701D turboshaft engine, providing 1,800 shaft‑horsepower and dramatically improving climb rate and payload capacity. Its tandem‑seat cockpit, armored survivability suite, and advanced avionics—including a digital flight control system, night‑vision compatible FLIR, and a multi‑mode fire‑control radar—gave it unprecedented effectiveness in close‑air support and anti‑armor missions. Armed with a 20 mm cannon, AGM‑114 Hellfire missiles, Hydra 70 rockets, and the ability to carry external fuel tanks, the aircraft could engage targets at day or night in all weather conditions. Over 500 units were built and saw extensive combat in Lebanon, the Gulf War, and operations in the Balkans and Iraq, cementing the SuperCobra’s reputation as a versatile, rugged attack platform. Its legacy endures in the modern Bell AH‑1Z Viper, reflecting the SuperCobra’s lasting impact on rotary‑wing attack doctrine and underscoring Bell Textron’s pivotal role in advancing military aviation technology. The SuperCobra remains a benchmark for helicopter gunships worldwide.