USMC’s AH-1Z Viper Is the Most Advanced Gunship

From the sun-baked deserts of the Middle East to the storm-lashed decks of amphibious assault ships, the AH-1Z Viper is ready to strike
This isn't your grandfather's Huey.

It's the incorporation of a four-blade, bearingless, and hingeless rotor system, made from robust composites, that sets the Viper apart. This innovative rotor design not only enhances the helicopter's ballistic survivability but also significantly reduces the number of parts, boosting both reliability and maintainability.

Inside the cockpit the Bell AH-1Z Viper is a flying command center.
To give pilots unparalleled situational awareness, this attack aircraft is equipped with advanced targetting and sight systems.:

The helmet-mounted system provides pilots with a panoramic view, complete with critical targeting data overlaid on a visor.
Lockheed Martin Fire Control Radar (FCR) with High-Definition Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) pierce through darkness, fog, and even smoke, painting a clear picture of the battlefield under any conditions.
The Viper boasts a sleek, glass cockpit with multi-function displays (MFDs) presenting critical flight and mission information in a clear, concise way.

The nearly identical front and rear glass cockpits, equipped with Hands on Collective and Stick (HOCAS) side-stick architecture, enable operation from either position, offering flexibility and enhanced control to the crew.
The AH-1Z's weapon systems are highly configurable, allowing for a wide range of mission-specific loadouts. This flexibility ensures that the Viper can be effectively used in different combat scenarios, from close air support to anti-armor operations.

Its legendary M197 Three-Barreled 20mm rotary cannon fires at a maximum rate of 750 rounds per minute. The rotating barrels minimize heat buildup, allowing for sustained fire in extended engagements unleashing a hail of tungsten bullets capable of shredding light vehicles and infantry.

The AH-1Z Viper's armament includes a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, along with rocket pods, to suit various mission requirements. It can carry AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, which are infrared-guided and designed for short-range air-to-air combat. For engaging ground targets, the Viper is armed with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, known for their anti-armor capabilities and precision striking. Additionally, it can be equipped with 2.75-inch Hydra 70 rocket pods, versatile for a range of missions such as suppressing enemy air defenses, air interdiction, and providing close air support.

This diverse weaponry, combined with the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar, allows the Viper to engage multiple targets with precision.

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