The AH-1 Cobra (Bell 209) is a classically designed attack helicopter that uses many of the components of its "big brother" the UH-1 Huey. The first flight of the prototype AH-1 took place on September 7, 1965, and the same year the helicopter entered mass production. During the Vietnam War, 1,126 Model Gs were produced, of which 279 were lost in action. Due to the very high reliability of the design, small side profile and good characteristics, the helicopter remains in service with the US Marine Corps to this day. The AH-1 allowed the US Army to fully implement the theoretical assumption of airborne infantry ("air cavalry") with fire support for airborne infantry units. Today, the AH-1 Cobra is primarily used against armored vehicles. Since 1965, several versions of this successful helicopter have been created, including: AH-1G (basic version), AH-1J (twin-engine version), AH-1Q (version armed with TOW missiles). Technical data: Maximum speed: 333 km/h; maximum range (depending on version): 507-574 km, armament: 1 stationary 20 mm M197 three-barreled cannon, pendant missiles, guided missiles, unguided missiles and gun pods.
