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AH-1Z Viper Helicopter

AH-1Z Viper Helicopter

Manufacturer: Bell Textron Inc.
Category: Military Helicopters
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Advanced Avionics Integrated glass cockpit, HMD, and TSS system
High Maneuverability Four-blade composite rotor and digital flight control
Multi-role Capability Attack, escort, and close air support missions
Superior Survivability Armor plating, IR suppressors, countermeasures

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	AH-1Z Viper
Type / Role	Attack Helicopter
Country of Origin	United States
Manufacturer	Bell Textron Inc.
Introduced / Service Entry	2010
Operational Status	Active
Operators	USA, Bahrain, Czech Republic

2. Performance

Maximum Speed (Road)	370 km/h (229 mph)
Cruise Speed	255 km/h
Range	610 km (Combat) / 685 km (Ferry)
Endurance	3.5 hours
Service Ceiling	6,100 m
Rate of Climb	12.4 m/s

3. Dimensions & Weight

Length	17.8 m
Height	4.4 m
Rotor Diameter	14.6 m
Empty Weight	5,560 kg
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	8,400 kg

4. Armament & Payload

Primary Armament	20mm M197 Cannon (750 rounds)
Secondary Armament	AGM-114 Hellfire, AIM-9 Sidewinder, Hydra 70
Hardpoints / Weapon Stations	4
Payload Capacity	2,600 kg
Countermeasures	AN/ALE-47, IR suppressors, RWR, chaff/flares

5. Avionics & Systems

Radar Name	Target Sight System (TSS)
Targeting System	FLIR, Laser Designator
Navigation System	GPS/INS
Communication System	Secure Data Link, Tactical Radio
Defensive Systems	MAWS, RWR, ECM Suite

6. Powerplant

Engines	2 × T700-GE-401C Turboshaft
Engine Model	T700-GE-401C
Power Output	1,800 shp each
Fuel Capacity	1,400 L

7. Crew & Capacity

Crew	2 (Pilot + Gunner)
Passenger Capacity	None
Cabin Configuration	Tandem seating
Cargo Load (Internal/External)	External stores only

8. Operational Capabilities

Night Operation Capability	Yes
All-weather Operation	Yes
Combat Proven	Yes

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Payload Capacity 8 / 10
Technology 8 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10
Operational Flexibility 8 / 10

PROS

Advanced avionics and digital flight systems
High maneuverability and low maintenance rotor design
All-weather and night combat capability
Extensive weapons compatibility
Combat-proven with U.S. Marines

CONS

High operational and maintenance cost
Limited troop transport capacity
Shorter range compared to fixed-wing aircraft
Requires intensive pilot training
Vulnerable to modern MANPADS in high-threat zones

AH-1Z Viper: The U.S. Marine Corps’ Ultimate Attack Helicopter

The AH-1Z Viper, developed by Bell Textron Inc. for the United States Marine Corps (USMC), stands as one of the most advanced multi-role attack helicopters in service today. Evolving from the iconic AH-1 Cobra lineage, the Viper is designed to deliver superior firepower, survivability, and situational awareness in both conventional and asymmetric warfare environments.

Design and Capabilities

The AH-1Z features a composite four-blade, hingeless rotor system, significantly improving speed, lift, and maneuverability while reducing maintenance requirements. Powered by two General Electric T700-GE-401C turboshaft engines, it can achieve speeds up to 370 km/h (229 mph) and operate effectively in extreme environments.

Its state-of-the-art glass cockpit, integrated with the Target Sight System (TSS) and Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD), allows pilots to identify and engage targets with precision. The helicopter’s Integrated Avionics System (IAS) enhances battlefield awareness through real-time data sharing and digital communications.

Armament and Mission Flexibility

Armed with a 20mm M197 three-barrel cannon, the AH-1Z carries a versatile weapons loadout including AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, and Hydra 70 rockets. It’s fully night and all-weather capable, supporting close air support (CAS), anti-armor, and escort missions.

Operationally, the Viper has proven itself in U.S. Marine Corps deployments and foreign service, notably with Bahrain and the Czech Republic. Its combat-proven design, modern sensors, and advanced survivability suite make it a formidable force multiplier in modern warfare.

AH-1Z Viper Helicopter Price in the United States

The AH-1Z Viper, developed by Bell Textron Inc., represents one of the most capable and technologically advanced attack helicopters in the U.S. arsenal. As of recent estimates, the AH-1Z Viper’s unit cost ranges between $31 million and $38 million, depending on configuration, mission systems, and weapon packages included. This pricing reflects not only the aircraft’s cutting-edge avionics and combat systems but also the logistics, maintenance support, and pilot training programs typically bundled with procurement contracts.

The U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) remains the primary operator of the AH-1Z, having integrated the helicopter as part of its H-1 Upgrade Program, which modernized its rotary-wing fleet for 21st-century warfare. Foreign customers such as Bahrain and the Czech Republic have also signed procurement deals for the Viper, with export packages often including spare parts, support systems, and advanced missile kits.

When compared to its predecessors and global counterparts, the AH-1Z’s cost is justified by its combat-proven reliability, survivability, and ability to perform across a wide range of missions—from close air support and anti-armor engagements to escort and reconnaissance operations. With superior maneuverability, modern digital avionics, and a versatile weapon loadout, the AH-1Z Viper delivers unmatched value for modern military forces seeking battlefield dominance.

In summary, the AH-1Z Viper’s U.S. price range of $31–38 million underscores its role as a next-generation attack helicopter—balancing cost-effectiveness, combat readiness, and technological superiority for both U.S. and allied operators.

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