AH-1Z Viper

Combat helicopter that can perform a variety of missions from attack, escort, and reconnaissance operations. In addition to this, it has the most advanced weaponry and survivability equipment, while also having exceptionally high resistance to salty environments. Bell Helicopter's AH-1Z Viper helicopter fulfils all of this.

It began to be built as part of the modernization of the US naval helicopters AH-1 SuperCobra, which it was to replace. The aircraft is made of composite materials and can carry two air-to-air missiles and sixteen air-to-ground missiles. The machines are optimized for the most technically advanced TopOwl sighting and display systems, which can be installed on pilots' helmets. Even the cockpit is packed with the latest technology, including full integration and compatibility with night vision goggles. In addition, the machine shares 85% of its parts with its sister UH-1Y Venom helicopter, making operation and maintenance simpler and cheaper.

Compared to the AH-1 SuperCobra helicopter with a two-blade main rotor, the Viper has a four-blade main rotor, a new target acquisition system and an improved gearbox. The machine also has more powerful engines, specifically two 1300 kW General Electric T700 turboshaft engines, a larger payload and a range of up to 100 km. Current users include the US Navy, Bahrain and now the Czech Republic. Slovakia has also received an offer for a lucrative purchase of Vipers from the US, but it is still considering the offer.

► Aviantion Archive - AH-1Z Viper