Helicopter • Bell • AH-1G Cobra, AH-1S Cobra, AH-1W SuperCobra, AH-1F Cobra, AH-1J SeaCobra
| Manufacturer | Bell |
| Model | AH-1 Cobra |
| Category | Helicopter |
| Variants | AH-1G Cobra, AH-1S Cobra, AH-1W SuperCobra, AH-1F Cobra, AH-1J SeaCobra |
| Production Years | 1967 – 1985 |
| Seating | 2 seats |
| Typical TTAF | 4,800 hours |
| Markets | United States, Israel, South Korea, Pakistan, Colombia |
| Price Range | $250K – $1.2M |
The Bell AH-1 Cobra is a single-engine attack helicopter that revolutionized military aviation when it entered service in 1967. Originally developed as a quick conversion of the UH-1 transport helicopter, the AH-1 features a distinctive tandem seating arrangement with pilot and gunner positioned in line, minimizing the aircraft's profile. The Cobra is armed with a nose-mounted Gatling gun turret and can carry a variety of ordnance including Hellfire missiles, rockets, and ammunition pods on stub wings. Its narrow fuselage, high maneuverability, and aggressive performance made it the definitive attack helicopter of the Vietnam War era and beyond. The AH-1 has been continuously upgraded and remains in service with military and National Guard units worldwide. Known for reliability and combat effectiveness, the Cobra established the template for modern attack helicopter design. Variants have included the AH-1G (original), AH-1S (modernized), and AH-1W SuperCobra with twin engines. The platform has seen extensive combat in multiple conflicts and continues limited operational service, though largely superseded by the AH-64 Apache in primary roles.
Maximum Speed: 207 mph (332 km/h)
Cruise Speed: 175 mph (282 km/h)
Range: 315 miles (507 km)
Service Ceiling: 18,100 feet (5,515 meters)
Engine: Lycoming T53-L-13 turboshaft (1,400 shaft horsepower)
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg)
Rotor Diameter: 44 feet (13.4 meters)
Primary Armament: M134 Minigun 7.62mm, Hydra 70 rockets, TOW/Hellfire missiles