Apache | AW249 | Blackhawk | Bo 115 | Changhe Z-10 | Cheyenne | Cobra | IAQ Toufan | Ka-50 | Kawasaki OH-1 | KingCobra | Mangusta | Mi-24 | Mi-28 | Prachand | Panha 2091 | Rooivalk | SuperCobra | Tiger | T129 ATAK | Viper

Introduction

AH-64D Anti-tank helicopters are specialized rotorcraft designed to engage and destroy armored vehicles, particularly tanks. These helicopters are equipped with advanced targeting systems and heavy anti-tank weaponry to effectively neutralize armored threats. Here are a few notable examples of anti-tank helicopters:

AH-64 Apache: The AH-64 Apache is a renowned attack helicopter used by the United States Army and several other countries. It is armed with a 30mm M230 chain gun and can carry a combination of air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and Hellfire anti-tank missiles. The Apache is highly versatile and has proven its effectiveness in various conflicts.

Mi-24 Hind: The Mi-24 Hind is a Russian-made attack helicopter that has been widely exported and used by numerous countries. It can be equipped with a mix of rockets, anti-tank missiles, and a 12.7mm machine gun. The Hind is known for its robustness and has served in various conflicts across the globe.

Eurocopter Tiger (Airbus Tiger): As mentioned earlier, the Eurocopter Tiger (now Airbus Tiger) is a multirole attack helicopter that can perform anti-tank missions. It is armed with a range of air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and anti-tank guided missiles like the Hellfire. The Tiger has been deployed in combat situations and has demonstrated its anti-tank capabilities.

Kamov Ka-50/52 Hokum: The Kamov Ka-50 (single-seat) and Ka-52 (two-seat) Hokum helicopters are Russian attack helicopters designed for anti-armor operations. They are armed with a 30mm autocannon, guided anti-tank missiles, unguided rockets, and air-to-air missiles for self-defense. The Ka-52 is also equipped with a mast-mounted radar for enhanced target detection.

Denel Rooivalk: The Denel Rooivalk is a South African attack helicopter specifically developed for anti-armor and anti-helicopter operations. It is armed with a 20mm cannon, anti-tank guided missiles, and unguided rockets. The Rooivalk has been optimized for the challenging African battlefield and has demonstrated its capabilities in combat.

These are just a few examples of anti-tank helicopters, and there are other models and variants available around the world. Anti-tank helicopters play a crucial role in modern warfare, providing air support and firepower against armored threats on the battlefield.

Models

frgermany Eurocopter Tiger

➾ FF 1991, S2003, 180 Produced. Operators frgermanyaustraliaSpain

The Eurocopter Tiger, now known as the Airbus Tiger, is a multirole attack helicopter developed by Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters). It is a result of a collaborative effort between France and Germany. The Tiger was designed to perform a wide range of missions, including armed reconnaissance, close air support, anti-tank warfare, and escort missions. Here are some key features and information about the Eurocopter Tiger:

Design and Features:Tandem-seat cockpit (pilot in the rear, co-pilot/gunner front). Narrow fuselage with stepped tandem cockpits sleek design incorporating stealth technology to reduce its radar signature. It is armed with a chin-mounted 30mm cannon, air-to-air missiles for self-defense, and several types of air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). It can carry its weapons on external hardpoints, as well as integrated pylons.

The Tiger is equipped with advanced avionics and mission systems to enhance its operational capabilities. It features a sophisticated electronic warfare suite, night vision compatibility, helmet-mounted displays, and a digital battlefield management system. It also has a high-performance sensor suite, including a mast-mounted sight, forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system, and a laser rangefinder/designator.

Power and Performance: The Tiger is powered by two turboshaft engines, providing it with high agility and maneuverability. It has a maximum speed of around 290 km/h (180 mph) and a range of approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles). The helicopter can operate at high altitudes and is capable of conducting operations in various environmental conditions. Service and Operators: The Tiger has been in service with the French Army and the German Army since the early 2000s. It has also been exported to other countries, including Spain and Australia. The Tiger has seen operational deployment in various conflicts and has demonstrated its effectiveness in combat situations.
HAP Tiger Germany
German Tiger

⚙ Specifications

Dimensions14.08 x 3.83 m (46 ft 2 in x 12 ft 7 in)
Rotor4 blades, 13 m (42 ft 8 in) 132.75 m2
Weight (L/G/MTO)3,060 kg/5,090 kg/6,000 kg (13,228 lb)
Crew2: pilot and weapon systems officer
Powerplant2× MTR MTR390 Turbo 2x 972 kW (1,303 shp)
Top speed/Cruiser speed290-315 km/h (180 mph, 160 kn) with rotor head mast
Ceiling4,000 m (13,000 ft)
Climb Rate10.7 m/s (2,110 ft/min)
Range1,080 kg (2,381 lb) fuel, 800 km (500 mi, 430 nmi)
ArmamentSee notes

USA Boeing AH-64 Apache

➾ Produced to c2,400 machines from 1982. Operators USAaustralia

The Boeing AH-64 Apache is an attack helicopter primarily used by the United States Army, as well as several other countries. It is a versatile and heavily armed platform designed for various combat missions, including anti-armor, close air support, reconnaissance, and escort operations. Here are some key features and information about the AH-64 Apache:

Design and Features: The AH-64 Apache has a twin-engine design with a tandem-seat cockpit, accommodating a pilot and a co-pilot/gunner. Its fuselage is armored to provide protection against small arms fire and some projectiles. The helicopter incorporates stealth technology to reduce its radar signature and has advanced composite rotor blades for improved performance. Armament: The Apache is armed with a 30mm M230 chain gun mounted under the nose, capable of firing a variety of ammunition types. It can carry a combination of air-to-ground missiles, such as the AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missile, and Hydra 70 rockets in its stub wings. The Hellfire missile is particularly effective against armored targets, including tanks.

Avionics and Systems: The Apache is equipped with advanced avionics and targeting systems. It features a helmet-mounted display for the crew, enabling them to visually designate targets and cue the helicopter's weapons systems. The aircraft also has a Longbow fire control radar, which allows for autonomous detection, tracking, and engagement of targets. Power and Performance: The Apache is powered by two turboshaft engines, providing it with excellent maneuverability and performance. It has a maximum speed of around 293 km/h (182 mph) and a range of approximately 480 kilometers (300 miles). The helicopter can operate at high altitudes and adverse weather conditions.

Service and Operators: The AH-64 Apache has been in service with the United States Army since the early 1980s. It has also been exported to several other countries, including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Japan, Israel, and others. The Apache has seen active duty in various conflicts worldwide and has proven its effectiveness in combat operations.

The AH-64 Apache has undergone several upgrades and modernization efforts over the years, improving its capabilities and maintaining its relevance on the modern battlefield. It remains one of the most advanced and widely used attack helicopters globally.
helicopter


⚙ Specifications

Dimensions58 ft 2 in x 49 ft 5 in x 12 ft 8 in (17.73 x 15.06 x 3.87 m)
Rotor4-blades, 48 ft (14.63 m), 1,908.5 sq ft
Weight (L/G/MTO)11,387 lb/17,650 lb/23,000 lb (10,433 kg)
Crew2: pilot and co-pilot/gunner
Powerplant2× GE T700-GE-701 turbo 1,690 shp (1,260 kW) each
Top speed/Cruise speed158 kn (182 mph, 293 km/h)
Ceiling20,000 ft (6,100 m)
Climb Rate?
Range257 nmi (296 mi, 476 km) combat 260 nmi
Armament1×30 mm M230 Chain Gun (1,200 rds), AGM-114 Hellfire/AGM-65 Maverick, see notes

soviet cold war Mil Mi-24 Hind (1969)

➾ Produced to 2,648 machines from 1972. Still produced. 67 Operators.

The Mil Mi-24 Hind is a large, heavily armed attack helicopter developed by the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It was designed as a multipurpose helicopter capable of performing various roles, including close air support, ground attack, and troop transport. Thus, it was also able to perform antitank missiones when needed. It was one of the most feared helicopter pof the Warsaw Pact, althought its aura somewhat shaded in the Afghan war. The Mi-24 is known for its distinctive tandem cockpit arrangement, with the pilot sitting in the rear and the weapons operator/gunner in the front.

Design and Armament: The Mi-24 features a robust, heavily armored fuselage to protect its crew and vital components. It has a tandem cockpit configuration, with the gunner/operator seated in the front and the pilot in the rear. The helicopter is equipped with various offensive weapons, including a chin-mounted turret with a 12.7mm machine gun, rocket pods, anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), and bombs. The armament can vary depending on the specific variant and mission requirements. Against tanks, the "Hind" possesses a large payload: UB-16 S-5 and UB-32 S-5, B-8V20 rocket launchers, S-24 240 mm rocket, and the 9M17 Fleyta and 9K114 Shturm in pairs on the outer and wingtip pylons and the always trusted UPK-23-250 gunpod for the GSh-23L firing if needed AP shells. The Mi-24 is also well protected from AA fire thanks to its armored cell.

Transport Capacity: The Mi-24 can carry up to eight fully equipped troops in its cabin or alternatively transport cargo internally. Troops can access the cabin through a large rear ramp, which can also be used for rapid deployment of troops during combat operations. This could be an antitank team, carrying it's own portable AT missile battery, adding to the helicopter own capabilities.

Performance: The Mi-24 is powered by two turboshaft engines, providing it with significant power and agility. The helicopter has a maximum speed of around 335 km/h (208 mph) and a range of approximately 450 km (280 miles) without external fuel tanks. The model saw several variants and upgrades over the years, Mi-24A, Mi-24D, Mi-24P, and Mi-24V with specific improvements in terms of avionics, weapon systems, and overall capabilities.

Service and Influence: The Mi-24 Hind has been widely exported to various countries and has seen extensive combat service in conflicts around the world. It has been used by numerous nations, including Russia, former Soviet states, and other countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Fast, versatile, powerful and robust, it is still one of the very best attack helicopter ever designed.
helicopter
Blueprint of the type

⚙ Mi-24D Specifications

Dimensions17.5/ x 6.5 x (57 ft 5 in/ x 21 ft 4 in)
Rotor17.3 m (56 ft 9 in) 235.1 m2 (2,531 sq ft), with fuselage 19.79 meters oa (65 ft)
Weight (L/G/MTO)8,500 kg (18,739 lb)/12,000 kg (26,455 lb)
Crew2-3 pilot, weapons system officer and technician, 8 troops
Powerplant2x Isotov TV3-117 turboshaft 1,600 kW (2,200 shp)
Top speed/Cruise speed335 km/h (208 mph, 181 kn)
Ceiling4,900 m (16,100 ft)
Climb Rate?
Range450 km (280 mi, 240 nmi)
ArmamentSee notes

ItalyLeonardo AW249 Mangusta

➾ Production awaited 2024+

The Leonardo Helicopters AW249 Fenice (English: Phoenix) is an attack helicopter project under development by the Italian firm Leonardo S.p.A. Development of the AW249 formally started upon receipt of a €487 million contract from the Italian Army as a replacement for the Agusta A129 Mangusta. It is to be larger, more survivable, and have greater autonomy than the Mangusta, incorporating stealth technologies and mission systems to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV)s. Numerous mature technologies will also be incorporated, such as the OTO Melara TM197B 20 mm chin-mounted cannon, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Toplite targeting system and Spike missile, it is intended for the AW249 to have lower operating costs than the preceding Mangusta. Leonardo is actively seeking partners to collaborate on the AW249; a letter of intent on this matter was signed with the Polish Armaments Group during July 2018. The maiden flight of the AW249 was originally scheduled to take place during 2020, but flew for the first time on 12 August 2022 from the company’s plant in Vergiate. There are to be a single prototype and three pre-serial production rotorcraft built ahead of quantity production AW249s. As per the original timetable released in 2017, the AW249 was to be in service by 2025 to enable the retirement of the Mangusta to commence.
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Leonardo Helicopters AW249

⚙ Specifications

DimensionsUnknown
RotorUnknown
Weight (L/G/MTO)7,500–8,000 kg (16,535–17,637 lb)
Crew2
Powerplant2× GE CT7-8E6 turboshaft, 1,900 kW (2,500 shp)
Top speed/Cruise speed259 km/h (161 mph, 140 kn)
Ceiling6,100 m (20,000 ft)
Climb RateUnknown
RangeThree hours,
ArmamentPayload 1,800 kg, OTO Melara TM197B cannon, RAFAEL Spike missiles

helicopters Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk

➾ Produced to 5,000

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter from Sikorsky Aircraft. The S-70 design was proposed to for the UTTAS competition in 1972. The YUH-60A was the winner of the program in 1976 and entered service in 1979. Among all the variants, the MH-60L DAP was developed as the "The Direct Action Penetrator", a special operations modification (MH-60L) used by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. A gunship without troops,with ESSS or ETS stub wings is armed with the M230 Chain Gun 30 mm automatic cannon, 19-shot Hydra 70 rocket pod, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, AIM-92 Stinger air-to-air missiles, GAU-19 gun pods, and M134 minigun pods.
helicopter
Profile of the MH-60L DAP

⚙ Specifications

Dimensions64 ft 10 in x 7 ft 9 in x 16 ft 10 in
Rotor53 ft 8 in (16.36 m), 2,260 sq ft (210 m2)
Weight (L/G/MTO)12,511/22,000 Ib. Cap. 3,190 lb (1,450 kg)
Crew2 pilots+2 crew chiefs/gunners
Powerplant2× General Electric T700-GE-701C/D turboshaft engines, 1,994 shp
Top speed/Cruise speed159 kn (183 mph, 294 km/h)/152 kn (175 mph, 282 km/h)
Ceiling19,000 ft (5,800 m)
Climb Rate1,646 ft/min (8.36 m/s)
Range320 nmi (370 mi, 590 km), Ferry range 1,199 nmi
Armament4x AGM-114 Hellfire laser guided air-to-ground missiles, see notes

Germany cold war MBB Bo 105

➾ Produced to 1500+

The Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm Bo 105 is a light, twin-engine, multi-purpose helicopter. Main design was started by Bölkow of Ottobrunn in West Germany by the early 1960s. The prototype first flew in 1967. It was the first light twin-engine helicopter in the world also capable of aerobatic maneuvers. It is featuring a hingeless rotor system, an innovation in helicopters back in 1970. Production was ramped up between Germany and Canada for a total of 1500+, with extensions to Spain, Indonesia, and the Philippines. MBB merged with Eurocopter in 1991 and production ceased by 2001, formally replaced by the EC135.

The MBB Bo 105 proved a remarkably adaptable helicopter, used for SAR, reconnaissance and transport, as well as ASW patrol from ships and anti-tank combat. The main version for this use was the 1975 Bo 105P/PAH-1 armed with wire-guided HOT ATGMs in service with the Bundeswehr as the Panzerabwehrhubschrauber-1. It replaced the Aerospatiale Gazelle. The Bo 105P/PAH-1A1 was an Upgraded variant of the 1980s which was ported as standard on most remaining helicopters. The Bo 105P/PAH-1 Phase 2 was a further planned upgraded version with infra-red roof mounted sight for HOT-2 missiles but it was cancelled by 1993. It was itself gradually replaced on the late 1990s by the new Eurocopter Tiger. Not scrapped ones were converted to the VBH version.
helicopter
Range of armament, ancient 1980s publication

⚙ BO 105P AH1 Specifications

Dimensions11.86 x 3 m (38 ft 11 in x 9 ft 10 in)
RotorNACA 23012, 9.84 m (32 ft 3 in), 76.05 m2 (818.6 sq ft)
Weight (L/G/MTO)1,276 kg (2,813 lb)/2,500 kg (5,512 lb)
Crew1-2 pilots, 4 passengers
Powerplant2× Allison 250-C20B 310 kW (420 shp) each
Top speed/Cruise speed242 km/h/204 km/h (127 mph, 110 kn)
Ceiling5,200 m (17,000 ft)
Climb Rate8.00 m/s (1,575 ft/min)
Range570 L (150 US gal; 130 imp gal), 657/1,112 km, 3 hr 30 min
Armament2x3 HOT or 2x4 BGM-71 TOW

chinese PRC Changhe Z-10

➾ c250 Produced
The Changhe Z-10, also known as the CAIC Z-10, is a Chinese-made attack helicopter developed for the People's Liberation Army (PLA). It was the first dedicated attack helicopter developed by China, marking a significant milestone in the country's military aviation capabilities. It was developed by the Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation (CAIC), with support from the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The project began in the 1990s as part of China's broader modernization effort to reduce reliance on foreign military technology. Russia and Eurocopter provided some initial technical assistance, while the design was heavily influenced by Chinese requirements and specifications. It is designed for attack and close air support missions, optimized for anti-armor roles but also capable of engaging other ground and air targets.

It is equipped with a 30mm cannon, and it can carry an array of weaponry, including HJ-10 anti-tank guided missiles, TY-90 air-to-air missiles, and other rockets. The helicopter has ballistic protection for the cockpit and engines, helping it withstand small arms fire and some level of ground-based anti-aircraft fire. The design includes some radar cross-section (RCS) reduction features, although it is not a full stealth helicopter. Originally intended to be powered by Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C engines, it ultimately uses Chinese-made WZ-9 engines due to export restrictions and a need for domestic production, for a top speed of around 300 km/h (186 mph), combat range of approximately 800 km (497 miles). It is in service with the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF) since 2012 for close air support, anti-tank operations, and armed reconnaissance. It was exported to Pakistan. Albeit comparable to the American AH-64 Apache or the Russian Mi-28, though it is generally considered to be slightly lighter and less heavily armed.
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us helicopters Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne

➾ 10 Produced
The Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne was an advanced attack helicopter prototype developed by the United States Army in the 1960s. Although it was never put into mass production, it marked a significant step in helicopter design and influenced the development of later attack helicopters, like the AH-64 Apache. Designed by Lockheed as an attack and reconnaissance helicopter, it was intended to provide the U.S. Army with a high-speed, heavily armed platform capable of close air support and anti-armor roles. The project was part of the Advanced Aerial Fire Support System (AAFSS) program, launched in response to the Army's need for a new, more powerful attack helicopter. It was a unique "compound" helicopter design, combining traditional helicopter rotors with a tail-mounted pusher propeller. This design allowed it to fly faster than conventional helicopters, achieving speeds of up to 274 mph (442 km/h). It also featured small wings to provide additional lift and reduce the burden on the main rotor during forward flight. The Cheyenne was heavily armed with a 30mm autocannon mounted on a nose turret, as well as TOW missiles and other armaments designed to take out armored vehicles and ground targets. Highly innovative for its time, it was featuring advanced avionics and stabilization systems intended to improve accuracy in targeting and firing while in motion. The 30mm gun on the nose could be aimed independently of the helicopter’s direction, allowing the pilot to engage ground targets more effectively. It had a tandem two-person cockpit, with the gunner positioned in front and the pilot behind, a layout that would be influential in later attack helicopters.

The AH-56 Cheyenne faced a series of challenges, including mechanical issues with its pusher propeller and concerns over stability and maneuverability at high speeds. The helicopter was also seen as having limited utility in the evolving battlefield environment, as the Army began to reconsider its role in armed aviation. After several prototypes and extensive testing, the Cheyenne program was canceled in 1972 due to budget constraints, technical difficulties, and a shift in military focus toward more versatile and simpler attack helicopters. Although the Cheyenne never entered production, its development heavily influenced future attack helicopters, especially the AH-64 Apache. The compound helicopter design concept continues to be explored in modern experimental helicopters, as manufacturers and militaries look for ways to increase helicopter speeds and range.
Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne

helicopters Bell Huey Cobra

➾ 1,116 Produced until 2019
The Bell AH-1 Cobra, often referred to as the "Huey Cobra," was a two-blade, single-engine attack helicopter developed by Bell Helicopter for the United States Army. Introduced during the Vietnam War, the AH-1 Cobra was the world’s first dedicated attack helicopter, and its design influenced military aviation worldwide. It was developed in the 1960s to fulfill the need for a fast, maneuverable attack helicopter that could escort troop-carrying helicopters and provide close air support. Based on the UH-1 Iroquois "Huey" platform, Bell Helicopter leveraged the Huey's existing components and engine, creating an agile, slim-profile helicopter optimized for armed reconnaissance and anti-armor roles. It entered service in 1967 and quickly became a crucial asset for the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War.

It had a Slim Profile and Tandem Seating (pilot and gunner sitting one behind the other) minimized its target area, giving it a distinct advantage in combat. It was armed with a 7.62mm minigun, 40mm grenade launcher, and a 20mm M197 Gatling cannon in later versions. It could also carry rockets and anti-tank missiles such as the TOW (Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided) missile. The Cobra uses a two-blade main rotor and tail rotor system, which contributed to its agility and allowed for faster forward speeds compared to transport helicopters. It was primarily used in close air support and armed escort missions, often flying alongside transport helicopters like the Huey to protect troops during deployment and extraction. During the Vietnam War, it proved highly effective in jungle environments, where it could provide covering fire and eliminate enemy positions before ground forces arrived. The Cobra’s role evolved over time, and it became a major anti-armor platform during the Cold War, capable of engaging tanks and armored vehicles with TOW missiles.

The AH-1 has been produced in numerous variants, including AH-1G (initial version for the U.S. Army), AH-1J SeaCobra (for the U.S. Marine Corps), AH-1W Super Cobra, and AH-1Z Viper (the most advanced version, in service with the U.S. Marine Corps). The AH-1Z Viper, the latest model, features twin engines, advanced targeting systems, a four-blade rotor, and modern avionics, making it one of the most capable attack helicopters in the world today.
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helicopters IAIO Toofan

➾ c50? Produced
The IAIO Toufan (or Toofan) is an Iranian-built attack helicopter, developed as a domestically produced version of the American AH-1J SeaCobra. The Toufan was created by the Iran Aviation Industries Organization (IAIO), part of Iran’s push toward self-reliance in defense capabilities, especially after the limitations imposed by international sanctions. Iran acquired a number of AH-1J SeaCobra helicopters from the United States before the 1979 Iranian Revolution. However, sanctions and limited access to Western technology forced Iran to develop its own upgrades and eventually indigenous versions. The IAIO Toufan series emerged as part of this effort to create an attack helicopter based on the Cobra’s design, with improvements suited to Iran’s operational needs and the Middle Eastern climate.

The Toufan retains the AH-1J's basic airframe design but incorporates locally produced components, including advanced avionics, improved targeting systems, and other modernized subsystems. Like the Cobra, it has a tandem cockpit with a pilot and a gunner, allowing for a focused attack and reconnaissance role. The Toufan is armed with a 20mm cannon and can carry rockets and anti-tank missiles, similar to its American counterpart. It reportedly uses Toofan anti-tank missiles (similar to the TOW missile), though details on missile capabilities are somewhat limited due to restricted information on Iranian defense technology. The helicopter has upgraded optics, infrared cameras, and navigation systems to enhance targeting accuracy and allow for nighttime and all-weather operations.

Toufan I: The initial version of the Toufan, with upgrades to its avionics and missile systems. This version is largely based on the original AH-1J model.
Toufan II: Introduced in 2013, this variant includes further improvements to weapon systems, targeting optics, and survivability. The Toufan II has better accuracy in target acquisition and has been outfitted with modernized equipment, including enhanced communication systems.
Toufan III: Reports suggest an even more recent model, which likely includes further advancements in Iranian-built electronics and potentially increased engine performance, though specific details remain classified.

The Toufan series is primarily operated by the Islamic Republic of Iran Army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The helicopters are used for close air support, anti-armor missions, and armed reconnaissance. They are also deployed in border regions and have likely been tested in combat, given Iran’s involvement in regional conflicts.
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soviet helicopters Kamov Ka-50 Black Shark

➾ 19 Produced
The Kamov Ka-50, also known as the "Black Shark" (NATO Hokum A), is a Russian single-seat attack helicopter designed by the Kamov Design Bureau. Notable for its unique coaxial rotor system and innovative design, the Ka-50 is one of the most advanced and distinctive attack helicopters ever built. It was developed in the 1980s as a high-performance, heavily armed attack helicopter to fulfill the Soviet Union’s need for a powerful anti-armor aircraft. It was intended to counter Western main battle tanks and heavily fortified positions. It uses coaxial contra-rotating rotors, eliminated the need for a tail rotor, reducing mechanical complexity and vulnerability. It could execute complex maneuvers more easily, making highly agile and suitable for close-quarters combat and with greater stability and maneuverability in high-wind conditions or to operate in confined spaces, urban and mountainous environments. Single pilot with sophisticated avionics and targeting systems.

The Ka-50 uses a 30mm 2A42 Autocannon on the side of the fuselage,fixed, aimed by the pilot and carries a variety of anti-tank guided missiles, including the 9K121 Vikhr (AT-16 Scallion) missile, capable of penetrating heavily armored vehicles or 80mm or 122mm rockets and other ordnance, with pylons for mounting other weaponry. It was the first production helicopter to feature an ejection seat with its rotor blades jettisoned prior to. Designed for anti-armor and close air support it was superseded in the Russian Federation by the Ka-52 "Alligator" two-seat variant (196 made).
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modern japanese helicopters Kawasaki OH-1

➾ 38 Produced
The Kawasaki OH-1 is a Japanese light observation and reconnaissance helicopter developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). Known as the "Ninja," the OH-1 is Japan’s first indigenously developed military helicopter and plays a crucial role in Japan's defense strategy. Development started in the late 1980s, as the JGSDF sought a replacement for its aging fleet of OH-6 Cayuse helicopters. Japan wanted a more advanced observation platform with improved survivability, agility, and electronic capabilities suited to Japan’s defense-oriented military policy. Thus, Kawasaki developed the OH-1 specifically for surveillance, reconnaissance, and light attack roles without depending on foreign designs.

It has a compact, lightweight airframe with a tandem cockpit (pilot and co-pilot sitting one behind the other), giving it a narrow profile to minimize its target area and reduce radar visibility. It is powered by two Mitsubishi TS1-M-10 turboshaft engines, which offer enhanced reliability, redundancy, and safety, especially important for operations over mountainous terrain or coastal areas. The exhaust ducts on the OH-1 are designed to reduce the infrared signature, helping it evade heat-seeking missiles and enhancing its survivability. The OH-1 is equipped with an array of sensors, including an infrared targeting pod, optical sensors, and laser rangefinders. This suite enables effective reconnaissance, target acquisition, and identification. The OH-1 features a helmet-mounted display for the pilot, allowing for hands-free display of targeting information and flight data, which increases situational awareness. The cockpit is equipped with multi-functional displays (MFDs) and a digital avionics suite that enables better coordination with ground forces and other aircraft.

The OH-1 is primarily designed for reconnaissance and therefore does not carry heavy weaponry like attack helicopters. However, it has two stub wings with hardpoints, allowing it to carry Type 91 air-to-air missiles for self-defense. Future plans included potential upgrades to give the OH-1 a greater offensive capability, but for now, it remains primarily an observation and reconnaissance platform, with 250 planned, only 38 completed. The OH-1 is highly maneuverable, designed to operate effectively in mountainous terrain and urban environments. It can reach speeds up to 277 km/h (172 mph) and has a range of approximately 550 km (342 miles), allowing it to cover extensive areas in support of ground forces. Special attention was paid to reduce rotor noise, making the OH-1 more challenging to detect acoustically, an asset in covert operations or stealthy reconnaissance missions.
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us helicopters Bell AH-1W Super Cobra

➾ 1271 Produced
The Bell AH-1W Super Cobra is an advanced attack helicopter developed by Bell Helicopter for the United States Marine Corps (USMC) as an upgraded and more capable version of the original AH-1 Cobra series. Known for its twin-engine reliability, enhanced weapon systems, and all-weather capability, the AH-1W served as a key close air support platform for the Marines for decades. Introduced in the 1980s to replace older AH-1J SeaCobras and AH-1 Cobra in the Marine Corps it was tailored for for the unique needs of the Marines, with two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines, larger internal fuel tanks and external tanks, infrared suppression on the exhaust, improved armor, and crash-worthy fuel systems, all of which increase survivability against enemy threats. It has a Helmet-Mounted Sighting System, Night Vision and Targeting Systems, a 20mm M197 Gatling Gun, Rocket Pods (Hydra 70/Zuni rockets), TOW and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, even AIM-9 Sidewinder.

The AH-1W has a maximum speed of approximately 282 km/h (175 mph) and is known for its agility, which makes it effective in close air support and maneuverable in close-quarters combat and combat radius of about 240 kilometers (150 miles). It saw extensive use in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and various other conflicts. It proved effective in harsh environments, from deserts to urban combat zones, delivering precision firepower and close support to ground forces. It replaced in U.S. Marine Corps service by the Bell AH-1Z Viper but remained with Turkey and Taiwan.
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soviet helicopters Mil Mi-28

➾ 126 Produced 1982-2020
The Mil Mi-28 (NATO "Havoc"), is a Russian all-weather, day-night, military attack helicopter designed by the Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant. Developed to provide close air support and anti-armor capabilities, the Mi-28 was built to be a rugged and heavily armed attack platform capable of operating in diverse environments and adverse conditions. Development began in the late 1970s and 1980s as a competitor to the Kamov Ka-50, it first flew in 1982 but underwent several rounds of updates, latest being the Mi-28N in the 2000s. It has a two-Seat Tandem Configuration, Heavy Armor and Protection, Crash-Resistant Features, All-Weather, Day-Night Capability, Radar and Electro-Optical Systems, Helmet-Mounted Display and Targeting System, Thermal Imaging and Laser Rangefinder.

The Mi-28 is armed with the 30mm Shipunov 2A42 Cannon mounted on a chin turret, capable of firing high-explosive and armor-piercing rounds. This cannon is effective against both armored vehicles and infantry. It is typically equipped with 9M120 Ataka (AT-9 Spiral) anti-tank guided missiles but could also carry 80mm or 122mm unguided rockets and bombs as well as having an Air-to-Air Capability with Igla or Strela mounted under pod. It is powered by two Klimov TV3-117 turboshaft engines, giving it a high degree of reliability and power, particularly in challenging terrain and hot climates, top speed 300 km/h (186 mph), range 435 km (270 miles). To the Mi-28A initial variant with day combat capability only, succeeded the Mi-28N "Night Hunter" (most common variant) alongside the training Mi-28UB (dual-control) and latest Mi-28NM with improved radar, new sensors, updated engines, and additional avionics for better survivability and combat effectiveness. It was deployed so far in Syria and more recently in Ukraine. It was exported also to Iraq and Algeria.
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Indian Helicopters HAL Prachand

➾ 15 Produced (156 ordered)
The HAL Prachand (also known as the Light Combat Helicopter or LCH) is an indigenously developed attack helicopter by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Armed Forces. Prachand, meaning "fierce" in Hindi, was developed to meet the specific needs of the Indian Army and Air Force for a lightweight, agile, and high-altitude-capable attack helicopter. The LCH is notable for its versatility in various combat roles, especially in mountainous and high-altitude terrains. Development of the began after the 1999 Kargil War, with the need for a dedicated light attack helicopter that could operate at high altitudes such as Ladakh and the Siachen Glacier, where other helicopters face performance limitations. First flight of the prototype took place in 2006, with extensive testing and service in 2021.

The Prachand has a Lightweight and Agile Frame, Stealth and Armor Features, High-Altitude Performance (6,500 meters or 21,300 feet), a full Avionics and Sensor Suite with All-Weather, Day-Night Capability, Advanced Targeting and Display Systems, Electronic Warfare and Self-Protection with RWR and MAWS, CMDS. It is armed with a 20mm M621 Cannon, nose-mounted, turreted and Helina (a variant of the Nag) anti-armor missiles, or 70mm rockets, even the MBDA Mistral air-to-air missile. Powered by two Shakti turboshaft engines, co-developed by HAL and Safran of France optimized for high-altitude performance, procures it a top speed of about 268 km/h (167 mph), range of approximately 550 kilometers (340 miles).
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