Bell AH-1 Cobra: First Dedicated Attack Heli

The Bell AH-1 Cobra, the first fully-purpose-built attack helicopter, made its air debut in 1965 and gave the US Army command of remarkable close-combat air power. Over fifty years later, the fast, powerful, and firepower-packed machine is still in use by the US Marine Corps. Even the seating arrangement is a fighter jet-inspired element that can be seen when examining the helicopter closely. The co-pilot/gunner sat in the front and the pilot occupied the elevated rear seat of the long, narrow cockpit with a bubble canopy. The helicopter has a very efficient design, is sleek, and can carry a lot of armament.

The fuselage has two short wings that extend from the sides and are equipped with cannons, minigun pods, and missiles underneath. Under the thin yet strong wings, 3,000 pounds of weapons might be transported. The front turret's nose was also equipped with miniguns, grenade launchers, or both. Prior to the Cobra, big transport helicopters were the standard; the helicopter represented a dramatic advance in capabilities and maneuverability. Simple skid undercarriage added little weight, giving the guns increased payload capacity.

Role: Attack helicopter
National origin: United States
Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
First flight: 7 September 1965
Introduction: 1967
Retired; 2001 (US Army)
Status; In service
Primary users: United States Army (historical), Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Army, Royal Jordanian Air Force
Produced: 1967–2019
Number built: 1,116
Developed from: Bell UH-1 Iroquois
Variants: Bell AH-1 SeaCobra/SuperCobraBell 309 KingCobra