Bell Textron
Bell AH-1Z Viper
The Bell AH‑1Z Viper is the latest evolution of the legendary Huey attack platform, produced by Bell Textron. Development began in the early 2000s as a comprehensive upgrade to the aging AH‑1W Super Cobra, with the goal of delivering a more powerful, survivable and networked gunship for the United States Marine Corps. First flight occurred in 2002 and the type entered operational service in 2010, replacing both the AH‑1W and the older AH‑1E models.
Key features include a dual‑channel FADEC‑controlled General Electric T700‑GE‑701D turboshaft engines delivering 2,000 shaft‑horsepower each, a four‑blade, composite, hingeless main rotor that provides a top speed of 227 knots, and a fully integrated digital glass cockpit with night‑vision‑compatible displays. The Viper can carry a 20‑mm M197 cannon, AGM‑114L Hellfire missiles, Hydra 70 rockets and external fuel tanks, all managed by the advanced Target Sight System and the Common Avionics Architecture System. Enhanced survivability comes from ballistic‑tolerant airframe sections, self‑sealant fuel tanks and extensive electronic‑warfare suites.
The AH‑1Z’s blend of legacy reliability and modern technology has made it a cornerstone of Marine Corps close‑air‑support, demonstrating the enduring relevance of attack helicopters in network‑centric warfare and influencing future rotary‑wing development worldwide.
Key features include a dual‑channel FADEC‑controlled General Electric T700‑GE‑701D turboshaft engines delivering 2,000 shaft‑horsepower each, a four‑blade, composite, hingeless main rotor that provides a top speed of 227 knots, and a fully integrated digital glass cockpit with night‑vision‑compatible displays. The Viper can carry a 20‑mm M197 cannon, AGM‑114L Hellfire missiles, Hydra 70 rockets and external fuel tanks, all managed by the advanced Target Sight System and the Common Avionics Architecture System. Enhanced survivability comes from ballistic‑tolerant airframe sections, self‑sealant fuel tanks and extensive electronic‑warfare suites.
The AH‑1Z’s blend of legacy reliability and modern technology has made it a cornerstone of Marine Corps close‑air‑support, demonstrating the enduring relevance of attack helicopters in network‑centric warfare and influencing future rotary‑wing development worldwide.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 17.8 metre
Performance
- Range
- 370 nautical mile
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 28
- First Flight
- 2000
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Bell Textron
- Developer
- Bell Textron
- Nickname
- Viper
- Military Designation
- AH-1Z
- Operator
-
United States Marine Corps
- Wikidata ID
- Q2419137