AH-1Z Viper Super Charged Air Assault Helicopter

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  • Опубліковано 12 чер 2022
  • A direct descendant of the first ever attack helicopter, the AH-1 Cobra, the Bell AH-1Z Viper is a result of the evolution of top American rotary aircraft.
    Also known as Zulu Cobra for its variant letter, the aircraft’s elite DNA dates back to the 1960s. However, it would be until three decades later that the US government made sure the Viper would enter the new millennium with mighty force.
    The Viper features the best qualities of the Huey and Cobra in one sleek design. However, unlike other Bell helicopters, the Zulu Cobra proved a bold enterprise, changing the company’s signature two-bladed main rotor for a four-bladed one that allowed for outstanding flying and combat capabilities.
    Implementing state-of-the-art weapons and digital technology, the Viper was not only able to respond to the demands of the contemporary battlefield, but effectively became the most advanced helicopter to this day…
    ---
    Join Dark Skies as we explore the world of aviation with cinematic short documentaries featuring the biggest and fastest airplanes ever built, top-secret military projects, and classified missions with hidden untold true stories. Including US, German, and Soviet warplanes, along with aircraft developments that took place during World War I, World War 2, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the Gulf War, and special operations mission in between.
    As images and footage of actual events are not always available, Dark Skies sometimes utilizes similar historical images and footage for dramatic effect and soundtracks for emotional impact. We do our best to keep it as visually accurate as possible.
    All content on Dark Skies is researched, produced, and presented in historical context for educational purposes. We are history enthusiasts and are not always experts in some areas, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with corrections, additional information, or new ideas.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 509

  • @extraintelligence
    @extraintelligence 2 роки тому +566

    Just wanted to mention, the AH-1Z's chin gun is NOT fixed. It is housed in the A/A49E-7 turret, which has +/-110° of azimuth, 21° of elevation, and 50° of depression.

    • @sheilaolfieway1885
      @sheilaolfieway1885 2 роки тому +7

      Does it come with multiple configurations for the chin guns like the older cobra models?

    • @aa3680
      @aa3680 2 роки тому +56

      Yeah I thought it was odd that he said the cannon was fixed in place.

    • @colhubbard9348
      @colhubbard9348 2 роки тому +77

      I think he does it on purpose, every video he makes, has at least 1 error in the specs of the subject topic. Guess he does it to see how many people are actually watching his videos

    • @tklube308
      @tklube308 2 роки тому +2

      @@sheilaolfieway1885 no, just the 20mm.

    • @shize9ine
      @shize9ine 2 роки тому +43

      @@colhubbard9348 9:20 - trying to get comment engagement for the algorithm.

  • @timothywalsh1001
    @timothywalsh1001 2 роки тому +83

    I worked on the AH-1 Cobra. My favorite model is the ECAS (enhanced Cobra armament system). I also worked on the FMC, (fully modernized cobra)
    I wish the Army kept them and just modified them with continued upgrades. A glass cockpit, use of composites, and ofc.. a transmission capable of handling the T53-L703's power potential and the rigid 4 rotor system. The engine is capable of 2000+ hp but transmission could only handle 1450hp.
    We were still using TOW missiles, 2.75" rockets and the 20mm cannon. Hellfires were already required imo.
    ...
    I'm curious how well the old AH1s would be against Russia in Ukraine. We originally trained for a European conflict and then switched to "sandbox" terrain..
    ...
    Fyi.. if you're not familiar with military aviation... the maintenance is insane !!
    Nothing is allowed to wear out. They are kept in like new condition

    • @Sdp40fguy
      @Sdp40fguy Рік тому +2

      i worked for the a10

    • @tango5814
      @tango5814 Рік тому

      Umm ty for information i will give This to russia :)

    • @DatoneADIsoldat
      @DatoneADIsoldat Рік тому

      @@tango5814this info is actually public and russia prob already knows this

    • @phantom0456
      @phantom0456 Рік тому +1

      @@Sdp40fguy worked ON the A-10, but I never worked FOR the A-10. Your level of commitment is inspiring.

    • @tklube308
      @tklube308 4 місяці тому

      What sqdn were you in?

  • @adamfrbs9259
    @adamfrbs9259 2 роки тому +71

    Man I'm 43, grew up during the release of the internet. But these videos are great, learn a bunch in a short time with clear, concise narration full of facts, no wasted words or time. Good photos and video too. It's like the old school History Channel, but faster and better.

    • @coolbreeze2.0-mortemadfasc13
      @coolbreeze2.0-mortemadfasc13 2 роки тому

      Same. I’m 43 too and know exactly what you mean.

    • @tuscarora5457
      @tuscarora5457 2 роки тому +4

      I loved the Discovery Wings documentaries, way before the History Channel. The narrator always sounded so serious.

    • @leehessey1154
      @leehessey1154 Рік тому

      43 too I know what you mean

    • @christopherchilders1049
      @christopherchilders1049 Рік тому

      Spot on these videos are so well done

    • @Legitpenguins99
      @Legitpenguins99 Рік тому

      Good content but I find the narrators overly dramatic voice very obnoxious

  • @Nativeat1YT
    @Nativeat1YT 2 роки тому +114

    I had two of these helicopters fly above my house at tree top level do a u turn in the field behind me and then fly back the way they came. They were so close you could see the pilots looking down at me. Closest I've ever been to one of these things.

    • @unbearifiedbear1885
      @unbearifiedbear1885 2 роки тому +13

      We occasionally get overflown by Chinook so low you can tell if the guy on the tail is having a good day or not 😂
      Bro the sound goes *through* you lol

    • @shifty1927
      @shifty1927 2 роки тому +2

      I live about 20 mins north from Pax River Station in Southern Maryland. Alot of cool shit in the skies round here.

    • @DoctorProph3t
      @DoctorProph3t 2 роки тому +2

      Where the hell did you live, Fellujah? 😂

    • @Nativeat1YT
      @Nativeat1YT 2 роки тому +1

      @@DoctorProph3t lol, I live In North Carolina

    • @DoctorProph3t
      @DoctorProph3t 2 роки тому

      @@Nativeat1YT I’m so sorry

  • @GRosa250
    @GRosa250 2 роки тому +86

    For anyone wondering what that object is that’s mounted on the post in front of the cockpit. It’s called a Low Airspeed Air Data System (LAADS). It utilizes a swivelling pitot probe and a digital air data computer to measure airspeed across the complete flight envelope.

    • @scocon8658
      @scocon8658 2 роки тому +2

      Cool! Much appreciated, thank you!

    • @Stubby0266
      @Stubby0266 2 роки тому +1

      It was called ADS Air Data Sensor when I crewed them in the 80's.

    • @matthewnewport2024
      @matthewnewport2024 10 місяців тому

      Thank you!! I've been wondering what that was forever

    • @matthewnewport2024
      @matthewnewport2024 10 місяців тому

      Anyone know why it only has one. But the apache looks like it has two

    • @Milano.5676
      @Milano.5676 8 місяців тому

      Doesn't the weather of the blades affect it?

  • @EricScott-jr8wl
    @EricScott-jr8wl 2 роки тому +8

    In Nam, 68-69, the sound of a Cobra was comforting to us Grunts. It was our A-10 of its day. One day going on R&R August of 69, I saw a fenced in area with shot up helos...one Cobra had a 51 caliber round in the side window, with blood on the window. It depressed me.

  • @davidphillips8674
    @davidphillips8674 2 роки тому +35

    I had the pleasure of being supported by a super cobra in Helmand, what a great machine

    • @keirfarnum6811
      @keirfarnum6811 2 роки тому +2

      I’ll bet it made you feel much safer knowing that kind of firepower was there to defend you.

    • @MRptwrench
      @MRptwrench Місяць тому

      Proud USMC vet dad of a Camp Leatherneck vet. You are appreciated.

  • @ssaraccoii
    @ssaraccoii 2 роки тому +27

    The Marines keep what works, and gets rid of what doesn’t. Perfect for their operations.

    • @replynotificationsdisabled
      @replynotificationsdisabled 2 роки тому +2

      Speaks up in Osprey

    • @atomicskull6405
      @atomicskull6405 2 роки тому

      They got rid of the CH-46 and replaced it with the V-22 though...

    • @camdenmiller7369
      @camdenmiller7369 2 роки тому +1

      @@atomicskull6405 V-22 does work in its role.

    • @atomicskull6405
      @atomicskull6405 2 роки тому

      @@camdenmiller7369 The problem is they try to shoehorn it into roles it's not suited for. It is *not* a full replacement for the phrogs.

    • @onseki1774
      @onseki1774 Рік тому

      You can look at the M1911 as basically being the wet dream of every 19yo recon marine and their Gunners and S-3 guys, about every ten years the fastest units get a couple more thousand 1911s for morale and not much else

  • @tklube308
    @tklube308 2 роки тому +9

    Thanks
    I worked on the J, T, & W model Cobras, and the N model Huey for 10 yrs in the Corps. HMA-269 & HMLA-369.

  • @atomicskull6405
    @atomicskull6405 2 роки тому +55

    As to why the marines didn't get the AH-64: Boeing developed a sea Apache and offered it to the USMC but the modifications necessary to make it operational off the marines small carriers and resistant to salt spray required removal of the chin turret and it was larger and more expensive than the cobra without adding much additional capability, and without the commonality with the UH-1 so the marines passed and went with an upgraded AH-1 instead.

    • @artnull13
      @artnull13 2 роки тому +1

      Fortunately the right choice

    • @Comanchee0689
      @Comanchee0689 2 роки тому +1

      That's all well and good, but then they got rid of the UH-1.

    • @___Me_
      @___Me_ 2 роки тому

      Was looking for this, thank you!

    • @artnull13
      @artnull13 2 роки тому +7

      @@Comanchee0689 what do you mean? The US Marines use the UH-1Y Venom - still in service.

    • @atomicskull6405
      @atomicskull6405 2 роки тому +6

      @@Comanchee0689 No they didn't they upgraded it to the UH-1Y Venom which is basically the UH-1 with the same upgrades as the AH-1Z.

  • @Ravebiscuits
    @Ravebiscuits 2 роки тому +13

    Slim and packing firepower. My motivation to keep going to the gym!

  • @TheBattleRabbit860
    @TheBattleRabbit860 2 роки тому +22

    I was stationed on Marine Corps Air Station New River in MAG-26. My unit was the first to fully switch to MV-22 Osprey, however our sister unit MAG-29 had the Cobras and Hueys. It was amazing to watch all of those helicopters train and operate, both at home and in Iraq.

    • @h00ligan64
      @h00ligan64 2 роки тому +1

      Thanks for your service sir

    • @markplott4820
      @markplott4820 2 роки тому +2

      but, the OSPREY is not a gunship a Single LAW rocket can take out a OSPREY.
      OSPREY are great for Cargo, Troops & Medevac .

    • @TheBattleRabbit860
      @TheBattleRabbit860 2 роки тому +1

      @@markplott4820 You're right, it is a cargo and troop transport. I said my unit was ospreys and our sister unit, who did escort for out cargo/troop carrying/CASEVAC, has the Vipers and Venoms. Also, a law can take out most transport helo's, the Osprey is guarded by Vipers when picking up or dropping off, and good luck hitting one on the move.

    • @TheBattleRabbit860
      @TheBattleRabbit860 2 роки тому

      @@h00ligan64 and it was a damn honor to do so.

    • @h00ligan64
      @h00ligan64 2 роки тому

      @@TheBattleRabbit860 people now days run from that kind of thing. Had I not been a dumbass and I was a young-adult I would have joined the service oh, they wouldn't take me though because of my record. It sucks when you feel like that's the only thing that you would Excel at and you can't even do it. Worst regret of my life. I'll carry it forever.

  • @edgaraquino2324
    @edgaraquino2324 2 роки тому +42

    Nice video! The Super Snake!! You don't fix what ain't broken...just make it better! It's nice to see that solid airframes( see 2:55) are being reconfigured and not thrown aside...

    • @BM-wc6bt
      @BM-wc6bt 2 роки тому +2

      The upgrade program went out after the first few models, due to the aging airframes of the older UH-1N and AH-1W. Many of them had been around since the 70’s/80’s. My old AH-1W started life in 1976/77 as an AH-1T model before being upfitted to the AH-1W in the late 80’s.
      And of the UH-1N’s….I know some were as old as the 1960’s some originally as single engine UH-1’s upfitted to the twin engine UH-1N Huey. At (06:34) they mention this and honestly, it was probably a good decision based on the age of the airframes.

    • @TheBattleRabbit860
      @TheBattleRabbit860 2 роки тому +1

      We are the only branch to opt to improve what we have instead of replace it. Everyone loves to ride the AH-64's d**k, but they need to hover/slowly circle for their best effectiveness. AH-1's can strike and move with ease. Also, the Army should have stuck with the RAH-66 Comanche.

    • @CharliMorganMusic
      @CharliMorganMusic 2 роки тому +1

      Nah, the Apache is better, but it's more expensive. For one, there isn't a radar and the longbow system is what makes the Apache into the god-tier weapon system that it is.

    • @BM-wc6bt
      @BM-wc6bt 2 роки тому

      @@CharliMorganMusic you obviously didn’t listen to the video very well. The AH-1Z can attach a longbow radar system, it just attached on a stub wing not above the main rotor (as on the Apache).
      But you also have to look at how these aircraft are used in combat….Cobras tend to be more mobile attack platforms, while Apaches generally stalk and then attack. When we worked with the Army previously we shared tactics and it’s wild how different we do things, but we both still do them well.

  • @danroffee4904
    @danroffee4904 2 роки тому +16

    Common parts between the AH and UH helicopters is huge for deployments aboard ship, as well as the emphasis on salt water corrosion resistance.

  • @wigon
    @wigon 2 роки тому +3

    I have fond memories of training at Camp Bullis, Texas, and having an Army National Guard unit escort our convoy heading to Camp Bullis using the old AH-1S single engine Cobras back in the 90's. That was so cool. Motorists along the highway were freaked out seeing Cobra gunships flying so low along the highway. It looked spectacular. I get goosebumps remembering that. The AH-64 Apache was a good successor of the Cobra, but the AH-1S Cobra was vastly less expensive and I think that inexpensive single engine variants should have continued to be produced for National Guard units with just some minor upgrades in the event they had to be used overseas. These days however the military unfortunately tends to constantly push for buying the most expensive equipment instead of going for a tiered system with a ample fleet of low-cost aircraft and armor designed for low-intensity counter-insurgency warfare (but that can be quickly upgraded for near-peer warfare).

  • @kentbarnes1955
    @kentbarnes1955 2 роки тому +7

    Building a model of the Viper currently. Cool beast

  • @HollywoodMarine0351
    @HollywoodMarine0351 2 роки тому +40

    Dark Skies: “F.L.I.R.”
    US Military community: We just say “flir”. 🙄

    • @patrickodell7654
      @patrickodell7654 2 роки тому +2

      Anyone who knows about flir

    • @davidbalfour3390
      @davidbalfour3390 2 роки тому +1

      And thales hates it when you pronounce it thales. But when I'm a customer I always do.

    • @ajstephen3977
      @ajstephen3977 2 роки тому +2

      Even the civilian market using it just say "flir"

  • @Ontheregz
    @Ontheregz 2 роки тому +4

    CHOP CHOP CHOP CHOP they are so LOUD! I worked across from mcas mirimar and when they would fly over , you knew what it was. My manager gave me a plane silhouette cheat sheet for plane spotting lol. We also had a free view of the air show every year 😂

  • @SC0RCH3er
    @SC0RCH3er 2 роки тому +26

    Czech rep is replacing its Mi-24 (or rather Mi-35) and Mi-17 fleet for Viper and Venom, first order is supposed to be 4+8 and there is a large probability there will be other of 8+4. In all honesty this might be the smartest, smoothest and most economical aquisition in Czech army (maybe with the exception of small arms). They should be arriving this or next year...I am really excited seeing these in czech camo scheme.

    • @TexasGreed
      @TexasGreed 2 роки тому

      hell of a steep learning curve

    • @scoutdogfsr
      @scoutdogfsr 2 роки тому +11

      Sounds awesome. The Czech are quite the small arms manufacturers. Personally I think very highly of your country. I was one of the few Americans to visit during the end of the Soviet era. Your people were hesitant at 1st then they opened up and were some of the most genuine and kind people I've ever met!

    • @SC0RCH3er
      @SC0RCH3er 2 роки тому +1

      @@scoutdogfsr Oh, cool, I hope you had a good time here!
      It depends on who and where, I feel it would have been a bit different during late 80s compared to now, because at the time I imagine a lot of people never came across many foreigners on casual basis so a bit of hesitation was probably normal, especially since secret police often messed with people.

    • @scoutdogfsr
      @scoutdogfsr 2 роки тому +1

      @@SC0RCH3er EVERYONE thought I was planted to spy on them. Until I crused at cop in Spanish and three of them beat me on the street. After that happened people started to trust me. One hell of a way to gain trust my friend.

    • @SC0RCH3er
      @SC0RCH3er 2 роки тому

      @@scoutdogfsr Yeah, STB often did "provocations" to get people they were interested in to trouble or to cooperate. So people were always a bit cautious with new people...
      Damn, that sounds pretty rough.

  • @raymondyee2008
    @raymondyee2008 2 роки тому +7

    The ultimate version of the Cobra. Just make sure it doesn’t fall into rogue nations that operate Cobras before.

  • @danielober884
    @danielober884 3 місяці тому

    I worked on the AH1J which came back from Vietnam through to the AH1T. HMA169 1976-1982 Beautiful aircraft I miss the sounds and smell of JP5

  • @MRptwrench
    @MRptwrench Місяць тому

    So many Apache fans are not happy with the opening lines, but they're both awesome US attack helos. Different tools for different jobs.
    Yes, helos. As a young Marine, one of the moments that burned into my memory was witnessing the Warrant Officer jocks walking as demigods to or from their Cobras. When your a lower enlisted pouring out of the AAV or being transported to the LZ on a CH-47 or 53, those Cobras butterflying above or escorting the big helos was understood to be Super Necessary. I will always have much love for the Cobras.
    Fast movers are nice for dropping numbers on heads, but the Cobras could and did LOITER. And Cobra jocks are pretty good FACs/FOs in their own right.

  • @johnreynolds1527
    @johnreynolds1527 Рік тому +1

    I've Always loved the Whiskey Super Cobra But that New Viper is Bad Ass .

  • @74charger44
    @74charger44 2 роки тому +6

    I was in the Marines back in the mid 80s. I was with HMT-303. A UH-1N and AH-1J squadron. The squadron was on deployment to MCAS Yuma, when at night 3 of us got word to go down to end of the runway and tow back a cobra that just made it in.
    That snake was the 1st delivery of the AH-1W.
    It just made it. When we brought it back we started to inspect it to see what was wrong. It was a major Hydraulic leak coming from one of the servos. HMA-169 took delivery of that snake. I remember being part of that ceremony and flyover when the W s started to trickle in.

    • @BM-wc6bt
      @BM-wc6bt 2 роки тому +1

      And I was in during the mid 2000’s, just as I was getting out we took delivery of the new UH-1Y and the AH-1Z’s would soon be coming in the coming years.
      I loved the Whiskey and Novembers…I got to be on the last deployment of HMLA-269 that had our last 3 UH-1N’s that were decommissioned after we returned in 2013.

    • @p.d8423
      @p.d8423 2 роки тому +1

      I worked on Whiskey models during Desert Storm & in Somalia with HMLA 369.
      Tricky to work on with packed space.

    • @gulfmarine8857
      @gulfmarine8857 2 роки тому +1

      @@p.d8423 L/cpl Peck here. I detached from 369 to join 169 for a Persian Gulf deployment.Same time...maybe a year earlier. Do you know Larry Hamm?

    • @joshm3484
      @joshm3484 2 роки тому

      Don't worry when it leaks, worry when it stops.

    • @74charger44
      @74charger44 2 роки тому

      @@gulfmarine8857 No. Do you know Dennis Swanson?

  • @WinkelManBearPig
    @WinkelManBearPig 2 роки тому +1

    The Cobra was always a badass Heli to any 80's kid. These upgraded models keep it that way in the next century.

  • @generalvictorironraven.1347
    @generalvictorironraven.1347 Рік тому +3

    84% parts commonality.
    That in and of it's self is quite impressive.

  • @txvet7738
    @txvet7738 2 роки тому +20

    This is the one thing that I like about USMC aviation, they were smart about their helicopter program. Unlike my beloved US Army aviation moving away from the UH/AH-1 platforms for the Apache and Blackhawk. The only thing we were smart with is my beloved CHINOOK! The best bird in the military bar none, no need to mess with perfection!!

    • @destroyerarmor2846
      @destroyerarmor2846 2 роки тому +1

      A Marine is a navy soldier.

    • @txvet7738
      @txvet7738 2 роки тому +2

      @@destroyerarmor2846 like my old man would say…”The Marines were there to guard the ship while they went to have fun at the bar!”

    • @replynotificationsdisabled
      @replynotificationsdisabled 2 роки тому

      Someone's never jumped from either a Blackhawk or Chinook and it really shows.

    • @txvet7738
      @txvet7738 2 роки тому +1

      @@replynotificationsdisabled 101st so no jumping but repelling and as a CH47 crew chief we leave the jumping to you legs!

    • @aolson8283
      @aolson8283 2 роки тому +1

      I believe that the move to the 64 & 60 was a smart move for the Army. Both platforms provided a jump in capabilities over the AH/UH-1 as well increase in survivability, mainly due to the lessons learned from the AH/UH-1. The main reason often cited for the USMC no going with the 64/60 was cost and the USMC's limited budget.

  • @adamfrazer5150
    @adamfrazer5150 2 роки тому +2

    I adore many a fixed-wing but truthfully there's always been something magnetic about a chopper, the way it operates and moves through the air. 🤔 I've probably lost over a pint of drool over the course of my subscribership(🙍) here. 👍❤

  • @kenhodgson3389
    @kenhodgson3389 2 роки тому +11

    I love all the Dark Vids ! For us pilot types we speek in Feet per Minute( FPM), Knots(KTS) , Nautical miles(NM) and feet for altitude I.E. 2500 ft, 35000 ft...metrics are used in very few places...China for one...Well Done on all your Dark Docs Keep them comming ! Converting is a PITA

    • @davidb8373
      @davidb8373 2 роки тому +5

      It’s all plagiarized from Wikipedia.

    • @kenhodgson3389
      @kenhodgson3389 2 роки тому

      @UCj-5ogHl6EE4b1WD9rji5hg Joe you are correct RE: Metric system in the world..However, in the Aviation world ( flying) Feet is used in 90+% of the world. China and a fewer smaller countries use meters. It is the standard measurement...as is speaking English with controllers. I flew helicopters in the US Army ...and yes we used Klicks when refering to terrain maps etc...but in the aircraft, we referenced Knots for airspeed, Feet for altitude and nauticle miles for distance....Thank You for the reply !

  • @cooperjoynes1574
    @cooperjoynes1574 2 роки тому +3

    Thanks so much! I’ve long wondered about the differences between the Comanche, Apache and the Cobra, which I now understand is commonly referred to as the Viper. Your documentaries are so educational. Keep up the good work!!

  • @Samtzu
    @Samtzu 2 роки тому +5

    Crewed one of the original AH-1's in 1968 in Phan Thiet..... it had NONE of the advanced features shown here. Two bladed main rotor, two bladed tail rotor, and "I guess we're aimed in the right direction" rocket sighting. The Cannon/Mini-gun nose turret could be moved and sighted, but that was it. No FLIR or helmet sighting. It had a dual hydraulic system but the lines were very close together so if one system was shot out, the other one probably was as well.... also, there was barely any room to work on the engine..... how things have changed.....

    • @Defender78
      @Defender78 2 роки тому +2

      the AH-1G had no periscope? I always wondered what the clear lens at the front of the nose was.

    • @Samtzu
      @Samtzu 2 роки тому +1

      @@Defender78 Don't remember.... the last time I crewed one was back in '68 or '69..... I DO remember my name.... sometimes.... not early in the morning, though....

  • @noname2490
    @noname2490 2 роки тому +20

    It makes me smile that my Marine Corps has kept a reliable and deadly weapon for so long.

    • @davidb8373
      @davidb8373 2 роки тому +4

      As if they have any other choice

    • @markplott4820
      @markplott4820 2 роки тому +2

      Marine corps still have AV-8 harriers and the Brits still have Harriers .
      no need to Replace , with what Works.

    • @CharliMorganMusic
      @CharliMorganMusic 2 роки тому +1

      The Marine Corps would've loved to have the Apache, but like soany things, it wasn't in the budget

    • @markplott4820
      @markplott4820 2 роки тому +1

      @@CharliMorganMusic would the Marines have used the Comanchee if it were Produced ?

  • @ericgiebel498
    @ericgiebel498 9 місяців тому

    My Grandmother retired from Bell after 30 years of service. Needless to say, I grew up all things Bell

  • @noktrum2794
    @noktrum2794 2 роки тому +1

    What is the most awsome thing about Zulu cobra imo is the TopOwl helmet dysplay system - it allowes the pilot to see thrugh cokpit... in infrared... how cool is that?!

  • @thelifeofjp1996
    @thelifeofjp1996 2 роки тому +1

    I work on these everyday in HMLA 469 17' - 19' as an Ordnanceman , waaaay easier than the AH-1W were. BUT before we upgraded, i had the chance to deploy to Daegu , South Korea 🇰🇷 for a month with the Whiskeys and let me tell u , hearing the whiskeys 2 blade rotors echoing off the foreign countries skyscrapers from the top of a mount that we hiked that day , was a awesome yet menacing sound that i will never forget.

  • @globetrotter7778
    @globetrotter7778 Рік тому

    A helicopter that carries Hellfires, Sidewinders, rockets and a gun ? Fairly intimidating.

  • @durrellmartin5168
    @durrellmartin5168 2 роки тому

    I was stationed in korea, as an army aircraft armament tech. Our unit installed the first ir jammer on the ah1s in country. Didnt survive the first live test. Sucked a rock off tarmac and cracked the new "disco ball". One hell uv a helicopter!! Was proud to work in it. Never understood why we were stationed in front of the airfield. Dmz then us(12km) then airfield(20km).

  • @bigsteve6200
    @bigsteve6200 2 роки тому +1

    Outstanding !
    The World's Finest US Marine Aviation. Swing with the Wing.
    Semper Fi

  • @joseaklx300r6
    @joseaklx300r6 Рік тому

    Back in 99' i was on my ait in maryland i spend my weekends inside cobra unit just walking around this birds love it

  • @sarge420
    @sarge420 2 роки тому +1

    My #5 favorite airframe. F-117A (85-89), A-10, B1-B, EF-111 (89-92). Pheonominal byrd.

  • @hellatightdude
    @hellatightdude 2 роки тому +10

    More helicopters please! Do all of US Army Aviation, including 160th’s special birds!

    • @CharliMorganMusic
      @CharliMorganMusic 2 роки тому

      Do a video on how the A-10 killed the AH-56 and gave us the AH-64. I will never not be salty about it.

  • @wendiraeuchle6199
    @wendiraeuchle6199 2 роки тому +2

    beautiful airframe and still only 3' wide at the cockpit. Love the Cobra!

    • @robingorenc9903
      @robingorenc9903 2 роки тому

      Well I'm new here and i don't really know how things are done here, i hope we can be a good friend here and also learn to know more about our self?

  • @peteanderson2533
    @peteanderson2533 2 роки тому +7

    Australia should of gotten these instead of those Tiger things.

  • @josephpacchetti5997
    @josephpacchetti5997 2 роки тому +7

    Impressive Aircraft, Thank you I'm subscribed to all the dark channels, And I watch them daily. 👍 🇺🇸

    • @davidb8373
      @davidb8373 2 роки тому +1

      It’s all plagiarized from Wikipedia.

  • @Idahoguy10157
    @Idahoguy10157 2 роки тому +5

    The USMC has chosen to stay with using the AH-1 series compared to the US Army’s AH-64. I suspect mostly for Marine logistics reasons.

    • @Shoeg4zer
      @Shoeg4zer 2 роки тому +5

      Logistics and the AH1 is smaller than the Apache, so its easier to store on a ship.

    • @Idahoguy10157
      @Idahoguy10157 2 роки тому

      @troy Ferrington … that too… The marines have kept the UH-1 and the AH-1 series in service for practical reasons.

    • @atomicskull6405
      @atomicskull6405 2 роки тому +1

      It's smaller and better suited to close air support and search and destroy missions. Boeing tried to sell the USMC a sea apache in the 90's instead of the zulu cobra but with all of the modifications needed to make it operational off the marines small ships it ended up being not much more capable than a super cobra still larger and heavier and without the parts commonality with the UH-1. And also the chin turret had to be removed so it was missiles only with no gun. The USMC politely passed and went with the AH-1Z Viper instead.
      I have to wonder what those boeing engineers were thinking, they HAD to know they were designing a turkey that didn't stand a chance of being accepted. Probably were instructed by the executives to make an apache that could operate off a USMC carrier but knew it was a dud.

  • @user-ue5hg3hj2w
    @user-ue5hg3hj2w 2 роки тому +1

    Wow nice changes since I was crew chief on G model in 1969-70

  • @jeremyweaver7689
    @jeremyweaver7689 2 роки тому

    Saw a couple of these at Lake Havasu Airport, got a chance to radio Semper Fi to these guys.

  • @nomercyinc6783
    @nomercyinc6783 5 місяців тому

    it all started with the huey and thats amazing

  • @snakeplissken3825
    @snakeplissken3825 2 роки тому +1

    My pops flew forward observation in the wso pit for 5th legion in those things. 12 pound rockets, 40mm grenades, and I think and 2- 7 mike mike mini guns. SNAKES.

  • @willw8011
    @willw8011 2 роки тому +1

    The front cannot can fully move. I read somewhere that the USMC and US Army are not using the TOW from helicopters anymore. I also heard that the TOW is supposed to be phased out of production.
    If I remember correctly, the USMC got the first AH-1 from the US Army, when the Army went to the AH-64. The USMC gets a lot of surplus from the US Army due to budget reasons.
    As far as the "best attack helicopter" that depends on the criteria used. The AH-1Z cost less to buy and maintain than an AH-64. The AH-1 also has less range and carries less ordinance than the AH-64. The USMC likes it due to its cost, similarity with the UH-1, and its size on a ship. Size is very important on a ship.

  • @glassboxes
    @glassboxes 2 роки тому +2

    we know they got some better choppers sitting in a hangar under ground

    • @John_Redcorn_
      @John_Redcorn_ 2 роки тому

      They have already shown it. I forget what its called but this channel did vids on it

  • @peter-radiantpipes2800
    @peter-radiantpipes2800 2 роки тому +1

    I see these a few times a week for years and always so cool. :)

  • @southjerseymountain
    @southjerseymountain Рік тому

    This was great. I'm building this model now and I have a great video/ pictures for reference. Thanks for your videos. New Jersey USA

  • @speedracer2336
    @speedracer2336 2 роки тому

    Bad ass chopper, big upgrade from the Cobra.

  • @edwardgilmour9013
    @edwardgilmour9013 2 роки тому +1

    at 7:43m in I like the use of Timber to brace the missile launchers.

  • @tklube308
    @tklube308 Рік тому +1

    Skipped right over the J model that I first worked on in HMA-269 back in '80.
    SKID KIDS

  • @the1HLT
    @the1HLT 2 роки тому

    Yes! More military helicopters please! Great video!

  • @rodgerbambauer123
    @rodgerbambauer123 2 роки тому +3

    Was Marine helo aircrew in S.E. Asia. Was always a plus when Cobras were our escorts.

  • @bradolsen8629
    @bradolsen8629 2 роки тому +1

    Awesome video keep up the good work

  • @sussyamongus6754
    @sussyamongus6754 2 роки тому +2

    Dark skies be like, I will include a little bit of incorrect information in every video

    • @justme_gb
      @justme_gb 2 роки тому +1

      The gobs of comments correcting Dark boosts the algorithm. XD

    • @davidb8373
      @davidb8373 2 роки тому +1

      You would think he’d get it right since he just plagiarizes from Wikipedia and other sources.

  • @tonyroberts7481
    @tonyroberts7481 2 роки тому

    One of your better videos. Keep up the great work.

    • @davidb8373
      @davidb8373 2 роки тому +1

      It’s all plagiarized from Wikipedia and actual content creators. 3:45 “The existing two-blade semi-rigid, teetering rotor system was replaced with a four-blade, hingeless, bearingless rotor system. The four-blade configuration provides improvements in flight characteristics including increased flight envelope, maximum speed, vertical rate of climb, payload and reduced rotor vibration level.[10]”
      “The AH-1Z first flew on 8 December 2000.[11] Bell delivered three prototype aircraft to the United States Navy's Naval Air Systems Command at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in July 2002, for the flight test phase of the program. Low-rate initial production began in October 2003,[5] with deliveries running through 2018.[12] In late 2006, a contract was awarded to Meggitt Defense Systems to develop a new linkless 20 mm ammunition handling system to improve on the gun feed reliability of the existing linked feed system.[13]”

  • @alm5992
    @alm5992 2 роки тому +10

    I was a tree in Vietnam. 12th Vegetation Division. The amount of my comrades burned and shot during this conflict was horrendous. All I could do was stand there, frozen in fear- and in the ground with roots, when I saw an entire platoon get wiped out by one of these flying monsters. I still share the horrors to my saplings, today.

    • @Nativeat1YT
      @Nativeat1YT 2 роки тому +1

      Tree seen this helicopter before it even existed, it must from the future, what's it like in the 2050s?

    • @DaysOfFunder
      @DaysOfFunder 2 роки тому +2

      Oh leaf them alone. Lol

  • @briantaylor8197
    @briantaylor8197 2 роки тому +2

    Having the fixed chin gun would be my only negative response. I wish the army would go with this platform than the Apatche. It would cut costs consideralaby. But no, that's not how our military works. Maybe if they would work together on budgets like it's done in war, they could have a lot more. I know, no need to say it. I served 6 years. Common sense is a rare thing. In some cases, nonexistant. We can dream.

  • @viktor_v-ughnda_vaudville_476
    @viktor_v-ughnda_vaudville_476 2 роки тому +1

    These things look sooo badass and as much as I love the Apache and is a dominant weapons platform if I had the choice I’d fly the viper or I like to call it the cobra Zulu

  • @kevint7994
    @kevint7994 Рік тому

    I remember the super cobra. This video is old classified data preceding the apache generation. AH = Attack Helicopter. The missions of point and shoot have a better meaning today. And god bless FT. Rucker Alabama btw. No runway, no problem...

  • @xubious
    @xubious 2 роки тому

    These things look so cool

  • @grantbovee
    @grantbovee 2 роки тому

    thank you

  • @EARP87
    @EARP87 2 роки тому +1

    Nice work wey! i love your videos!

  • @sciops5480
    @sciops5480 2 роки тому

    one of my fav helicopter's

  • @Anarchy_420
    @Anarchy_420 2 роки тому

    I'm sure its coincidence, lol most of your Vids are already apart of my Playlist😆👍
    Not to mention I've used several of your past Vids to make my playlist ;)

    • @Anarchy_420
      @Anarchy_420 2 роки тому

      My playlist-- ua-cam.com/play/PLtqdBipLaOaIMbr4TyFs0l_GC6LtFVrU0.html

  • @ryanbollinger9279
    @ryanbollinger9279 2 роки тому

    I love this stuff!!!

  • @creoleDJ
    @creoleDJ 2 роки тому

    Loved seeing these choppers flying around New Orleans. If not for the Apache, this would still be THE combat chopper of the US, in my opinion

  • @jacktingle215
    @jacktingle215 2 роки тому +1

    I'm prejudiced. The Yankee & Zulu have GE propulsion installations I worked on. The Zulu rear view is the butchest helo outline ever.

  • @zippymax1
    @zippymax1 2 роки тому +6

    "Moreover."
    What a great word. I used it in my writing 35 years ago. I must start using it again. Moreover, it's as good as "furthermore."

    • @John_Redcorn_
      @John_Redcorn_ 2 роки тому +1

      Parenthetically, I agree.

    • @thudthud5423
      @thudthud5423 2 роки тому

      I have a favorite word:
      "Whatever"

    • @zippymax1
      @zippymax1 2 роки тому

      @@thudthud5423 "Whatsoever she sitteth upon shall be unclean."
      --Leviticus 15:26

  • @JamesPiccone
    @JamesPiccone 2 роки тому +8

    My father was a helicopter gunship pilot in Vietnam and flew Cobra gunships along with Huey C model gunships.

    • @sheilaolfieway1885
      @sheilaolfieway1885 2 роки тому +2

      Do they handle diffrent? i imagine the passenger cabin on the huey alters the preformance a bit.

    • @JamesPiccone
      @JamesPiccone 2 роки тому +1

      @@sheilaolfieway1885 He's got a really cool web page with pictures on it he made devoted to his buddies but unfortunately it won't let me post it on here and keeps erasing my post. I never asked him that question though but I asked him what his favorite was to fly and he said the Huey c model gunship. He also flew "Loaches" OH-6

  • @archangelmichael1978
    @archangelmichael1978 2 роки тому +2

    As USAF (ret) I love this channel so much and enjoy your videos. You may be running out of ideas though. This helicopter video gave me the idea, perhaps you could do videos about fictional aircraft and their ties to reality. Perfect example for such a video idea. "The Story of AIRWOLF and the Bell 222." I think it's a great video idea. So many other legendary aircraft to cover as well, like the Top Gun F-14 and Top Gun 2 F-18. I hope it helps you out.

    • @archangelmichael1978
      @archangelmichael1978 2 роки тому +2

      I chose Airwolf because looking back on everything in retrospect, whoever was the pilot of that Bell 222 was top of their game and Airwolf's stunts were nothing short of spectacular. Most normal people will never truly appreciate it for what it was, but whoever they hired to pilot that Bell 222, in the early episodes and seasons, was highly skilled.

  • @michaelraw8299
    @michaelraw8299 2 роки тому

    Loved it!

  • @ronaldschoolcraft8654
    @ronaldschoolcraft8654 2 роки тому +1

    Bell has been using 4-bladed rotors on their new helicopters since the early 1990s. The 406 (OH58D), 430, 407, etc.

  • @mrichar9
    @mrichar9 2 роки тому

    so gorgeous

  • @AndrewPenner
    @AndrewPenner 2 роки тому +3

    I’ve loved the look of the cobra since I was a kid. Just a mean looking chopper. The only better looking chopper IMHO is the RAH-66 Comanche (RIP)

    • @truckshackley373
      @truckshackley373 2 роки тому +1

      I remember reading about the Comanche in Popular Mechanics back in the day and always thought it was one sexy looking bird

    • @Nelthalin
      @Nelthalin 2 роки тому

      Agreed! The most beautiful helicopter ever made. To bad it never went I to production. It really was a remarkable helicopter.
      But I also like the corba a lot and dit viper is also very nice. But not as nice as the RAH-66.

    • @AndrewPenner
      @AndrewPenner 2 роки тому

      @@truckshackley373 yup, me too

  • @ValerieprimcessAmanda
    @ValerieprimcessAmanda 2 роки тому

    Awesome

  • @JcXtreme72
    @JcXtreme72 2 роки тому +3

    I always like cobras more than apaches

  • @wildcolonialman
    @wildcolonialman 2 роки тому

    Remarkable.

  • @anthonybowes9273
    @anthonybowes9273 2 роки тому

    Impressive to say the least a tankers nightmare

  • @delvinrequena8014
    @delvinrequena8014 2 роки тому +2

    In war thunder these go brrrrr

  • @thejudgmentalcat
    @thejudgmentalcat 2 роки тому

    I love the helicopter vids 👍

  • @simfaithguitar1
    @simfaithguitar1 2 роки тому

    Badass!

  • @bertcombs9944
    @bertcombs9944 2 роки тому +1

    Had these providing over watch in Iraq on my second tour during operation Matador, felt really better havin them over head and saw them really give it to the enemy

  • @sheilaolfieway1885
    @sheilaolfieway1885 2 роки тому +7

    I've heard someone say that the Cobra is pretty much a huey without the passegner cabin, a stripped down huey... i'm sure there are some other minor diffrences but i would wager that the huey and cobra along with the venom and Viper, use the same parts in some or most of their construction

    • @Shoeg4zer
      @Shoeg4zer 2 роки тому +4

      He addresses this in the video. There is 83% commonality between the Venom and Viper.

    • @knoahbody69
      @knoahbody69 2 роки тому

      That's how they started out. They cut off the bulky cabin and replaced it. The USMC uses the Huey and the Cobra because they share 80% of their parts, making them easier to maintain. They don't have the manpower to maintain two supply chains like the Army.

  • @conmangamer
    @conmangamer 2 роки тому

    I love your videos you have best aircraft videos

  • @turftiger2008
    @turftiger2008 2 роки тому

    1st they are built right here at bell in amarillo tx. 2nd they also build them for other countries of which i have photos also, 3rd they are tested right here in amarillo tx also . 4th the gun is not fixed. 5th those future upgrades are already being put on them; also seen in my photos.

  • @TJ-USMC
    @TJ-USMC 2 роки тому +1

    "Semper-Fi"

    • @user-kq8et4kw4b
      @user-kq8et4kw4b Рік тому

      Thank you 👍 for watching and leaving a comment,
      Text the TELEGRAM to acknowledge your Prize.🎁🎁🎁

  • @rodneycody8746
    @rodneycody8746 7 місяців тому

    Nice

  • @Orphican
    @Orphican 2 роки тому

    YES! Thank you! I was hoping for this after your AH-1 Cobra video and you didn't disappoint!

  • @bearez1
    @bearez1 2 роки тому

    Wild Bill would be proud!

  • @steveclark5357
    @steveclark5357 2 роки тому +2

    any 2 metals even of the same type has a dielectric charge , not just metals of diverse alloys

  • @mingming9604
    @mingming9604 2 роки тому +1

    can we get the longbow version of this also?

  • @tltnation878
    @tltnation878 Рік тому

    Always thought this aircraft was bad ass but damn 🙄. She is a stone cold killer.

  • @nopet-cu6wm
    @nopet-cu6wm 2 роки тому

    These are pretty birds. The apache is is a sight to see but I have a soft spot for the vipers.

  • @dksl9899
    @dksl9899 2 роки тому

    I was just watching the Star Wars Rebels series where the prototype B-Wing is flown by Hera; its designer boasts that it has a narrow attack profile and packs a huge punch. I immediately assumed that line was inspired by the AH-1.