Developed for the US Marine Corps, the AH-1W SuperCobra can fire more weapon types than can any other combat helicopter, Bell claims. The aircraft is the only attack helicopter, able to carry both Hellfire laser homing and TOW wire-guided anti-tank missiles simultaneously and weapon options include, Sidewinder air-to-air and Maverick air-to-surface missiles.
The manufacturer also says that the AH-1W is the only combat helicopter, which has been "marinised" for safe operation from ships, including immunity to electromagnetic interference from the vessel's radar. Half the force of US attack helicopters deployed during the 1991 Gulf War, were operated from ships Bell notes.
The USMC's Gulf War experience with the AH-1W led the service to bring forward plans to upgrade the cockpit, to reduce crew workload, and delay development of a four-blade rotor to increase speed, payload and manoeuvrability. The Integrated Weapon System cockpit-upgrade contract will be awarded in 1995, with kit deliveries beginning around 2001.
Source: Flight International