Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm Bo 105: The Aerobat
The Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm Bo 105, the legendary steed of Red Bull pilots Chuck Aaron and successor Aaron Fitzgerald, was a breakthrough contribution to rotary aviation from Germany and stands out as the world's first aerobatic helicopter. As the first light helicopter with two engines, the device was likewise novel. That's correct, this incredibly powerful helicopter's remarkable design allows it to perform inverted barrel rolls, loops, and other extreme stunts like the most extreme stunt planes.
The Bo 105's skills, as the first helicopter to ever accomplish these things, altered the helicopter's perceived utility and expanded its range of flight. One of this engineering marvel's many distinguishing features is the hingeless rotor made entirely of solid titanium. The vehicle has two 420 standard horsepower Rolls Royce engines that enable it to cruise at 150 miles per hour and climb at 1,575 feet per minute.
The majority of the machines' production took place in Germany and Canada, and they were used for everything from military to police work to the well-known upside-down and barrel-rolling airshow demonstrations. The helicopter has even been equipped to carry missiles and has been configured for employment aboard aircraft carriers.
Role: Light utility helicopter
National origin: West Germany
Manufacturer: Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB)
First flight: 16 February 1967
Introduction: 1970
Status: In service
Primary users: Republic of Korea ArmyIndonesian ArmySpanish ArmyPhilippine Navy
Produced: 1967–2001
Number built: 1,500+
