Difference between revisions of "Tzefa B"

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{{About
 +
|about= Israeli attack helicopter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
|usage= other versions
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|link= AH-1 (Family)
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}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=ah_1q_iaf
 
|code=ah_1q_iaf
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the helicopter, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the helicopter in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the helicopter, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the helicopter in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Israeli attack helicopter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Danger Zone"]].
+
The Tzefa B was a further development of the AH-1G Tzefa A, intended to fill the lack of anti-tank quick response units in the helicopter units. It was conceived as an anti-armour version of the AH-1G, and as such, it was fitted with 8 x BGM-71C TOW (SACLOS) ATGMs for use against enemy units such as tanks and other armoured vehicles. The vehicle entered limited service in 1975, with more units being delivered in 1979.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Danger Zone"]] alongside the initial Israeli helicopter tech tree, the Tzefa B has the good manoeuvrability and speed of other AH-1 variants, but with the extra flexibility offered by the new TOW missiles that older variants such as the Tzefa A are lacking. This allows the Tzefa B to be used in close combat or long range combat. For long range options, pilots can make use of the good agility and speed of the Cobra to quickly change positions and hide behind cover to avoid being shot down by enemy SPAA.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 12: Line 19:
 
{{Specs-Heli-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Heli-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the helicopter behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the helicopter behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
''Describe how the helicopter behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
As an attack helicopter, the Tzefa B has very good flight performance at low-medium altitudes, however it becomes more sluggish at high altitudes. In realistic battles with full load, takeoff can be hard as the throttle can not be put at 100% without engine problems, instead, it should be kept at around 80%. It reaches 260 km/h in a straight line with ease, and retains also very good manoeuvrability in low level flight.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}}
+
| 258 || 246 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| ___ || ___
+
| 296 || 277
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 33: Line 40:
 
{{Specs-Heli-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Heli-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the helicopter. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the helicopter. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical systems.'' -->
−
''Examine the survivability of the helicopter. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical systems.''
+
[[File:Tzefa B armour layout.png|thumb|350px|Tzefa B armour layout in the Hangar]]
 +
 
 +
* 12 mm steel plate - Engine
 +
* 12 mm steel plate - Below and behind pilot
 +
* 20 mm composite boron-carbide - Around the Pilot/Gunner
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks: 2 in central fuselage
 +
 
 +
The Tzefa B is not very survivable, it relies on its speed and manoeuvrability to survive. While fuel tanks are self-sealing, their position makes them prone to catch fire even to the HMGs of enemy tanks. However the armour around the pilot's is enough to stop shots coming from the HMGs of the enemy tanks once the AA threat has been eliminated.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
−
{{Specs-Economy}}
+
{{Specs-Economy}}Pilots should prioritize getting the TOW 4 Anti Tank Missiles and the M-129 40 mm grenade launchers since this can take out with ease medium and light targets from above. After that, get the EFS modification, the Flak jacket to protect the pilots and finish up the rest of the performance area.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
Line 50: Line 64:
 
** 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (4,000 rpg = 8,000 total)
 
** 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (4,000 rpg = 8,000 total)
 
** 2 x 40 mm M129 cannons (300 rpg = 600 total)
 
** 2 x 40 mm M129 cannons (300 rpg = 600 total)
 +
 +
The 7.62 mm MGs have an amazing rate of fire, and another 2 can be added in the inner pylons, however this weapons lack the penetration to be effective against ground targets, instead, this can be more effective against enemy planes, helicopters or used in PvE Helicopter Battles against light targets.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Heli-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Heli-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the helicopter's suspended armament: additional cannons under the winglets, any bombs, and rockets. Since any helicopter is essentially only a platform for suspended weaponry, this section is significant and deserves your special attention. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the helicopter's suspended armament: additional cannons under the winglets, any bombs, and rockets. Since any helicopter is essentially only a platform for suspended weaponry, this section is significant and deserves your special attention. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
''Describe the helicopter's suspended armament: additional cannons under the winglets, any bombs, and rockets. Since any helicopter is essentially only a platform for suspended weaponry, this section is significant and deserves your special attention. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
+
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="11%" | 1 !! width="11%" | 2 !! width="11%" | 3 !! width="11%" | 4
 +
| rowspan="4" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_AH-1G_(Israel).png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[M134 Minigun (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M134 Minigun]] machine guns (1,500 rpg)
 +
| || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 +
| 7, 19 || 7, 19 || 7, 19 || 7, 19
 +
|-
 +
! [[BGM-71C Improved TOW]] missiles
 +
| 2, 4 || || || 2, 4
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 28 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 +
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 +
* 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
 +
* 4 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
 +
* 8 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
 +
 
 +
The Tzefa B packs a havy punch thanks to its very diverse ladout. The AGMs should always be part of the combat loadout since they offer the capabilities to confront enemy forces from kilometres away. The rockets are also a very interesting choice, since they have a good amount of ammunition and are very capable in CQB alongside the 40 mm grenade launchers. The MGs in the other hand lack any sort of penetration to be used against ground targets except in Helicopter PVE Battles. However these MGs are excellent at taking out fighters and other helicopters from short range thanks to their amazing rate of fire and generous amount of ammo.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in a helicopter, the features of using the helicopter in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in a helicopter, the features of using the helicopter in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in a helicopter, the features of using the helicopter in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
The Tzefa B is best used in flanking manoeuvres, using its excellent low level speed and agility to shot AGMs from far away and then run back to cover behind mountains or buildings and change positions to confuse enemy SPAA. Frontal attacks are not recommended in the Tzefa B, even when used in close range fights, since enemy SPAAs will have an easy time shooting you down when flying directly to them.
 +
 
 +
'''Close Range Combat'''
 +
 
 +
If used in a close range assault the Tzefa B should be fitted with the 40 mm grenade launchers and all the rocket pylons, this allows to shoot several salvos of rockets to the enemy units and still retain a decent amount of ammo. While doing so, coming from the sides of the map and neutralizing the enemy frontline SPAA should be a priority, since once the SPAA has been destroyed, the armour of the Tzefa B should be enough to hold against some shots from the enemy's roof mounted HMGs.
 +
 
 +
'''Long Range Combat Usage'''
 +
 
 +
In long range combat with AGMs, a good idea would be to use the 7.62 mm miniguns to attack enemy aircraft or helicopters that may be a threat to you, many times jets would get slow trying to get a shot at your helicopter, so you could strike back with the amazing rate of fire of the miniguns. The AGMs can also be used against helicopters, when changing firing positions, hiding from the enemy SPAA and launching AGMs at enemy helicopters that are too focused or distracted is a good way to help your team in a support role.
 +
 
 +
'''Helicopter PVE'''
 +
 
 +
In Helicopter PVE Battles, the priority targets of all pilots should be the ground AA units, so that attack helicopters only equipped with rockets can go and destroy the rest of the units. Pilots can also participate in this attacks once the AA has been neutralized, with a custom loadout with the 40 mm grenade launchers, 8 x AGMs and 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets.  
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
−
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
+
'''Pros:'''
  
−
'''Pros:'''
+
* Very good flight performance at low-medium altitudes
−
*
+
* Relatively small target compared to other helicopters
 +
* Miniguns can't jam, they just overheat
 +
* Very good AGMs for use against enemy armour
 +
* The 40 mm grenade launchers are very good against light units
 +
* Has a Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Very bad penetration for the Miniguns
 +
* The 40 mm grenade launchers may be tricky to aim
 +
* Slow climb rate when fully loaded
 +
* Mediocre flight performance at high altitudes
 +
* Slow AGMs compared to other similar BR helicopters
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the helicopter in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the helicopter in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the helicopter in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
[[File:AH-1Q pair.jpg|thumb|352x352px|AH-1Q from the US army in Texas (Same model as the one used by Israel, the Tzefa B)]]
 +
The Bell AH-1Q '''Tzefa B''' was a version of the AH-1G equipped for anti-armour duties. The Tzefa B used by the IDF was a result of the identification of the need for weapons system that could respond to ground-based threats quickly and effectively. Six units were ordered using the AH-1G as a basis with good results with six more units ordered and later delivered in 1979.
 +
 
 +
The Tzefa B was used first in 1979 and alongside other Cobras was very active in combat in Lebanon. They also participated in the Lebanon War of 1982, with great success in the destruction of Syrian armoured forces, fortifications, and conducting raids against enemy logistics.
 +
 
 +
The Tzefa B could be equipped with rockets, a cannon/MG turret, infrared sights and 8 BGM-71 130 mm TOWs mounted in a pair of pods on the outboard pylons for use against heavy targets like tanks and IFVs.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|zYbcq-KOpFE|'''AH-1 Cobra Ultimate Review''' - ''Bob Dickinson''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 82: Line 156:
 
* ''reference to the series of the helicopter;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the helicopter;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
 
−
* ''reference to the series of the helicopter;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[AH-1 (Family)]]
 +
** [[Tzefa A]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 90: Line 166:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
* [https://vertipedia.vtol.org/aircraft/getAircraft/aircraftID/61 <nowiki>[Vertipedia]</nowiki> Bell AH-1Q TOW Cobra]
 +
 +
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 
{{Israel helicopters}}
 
{{Israel helicopters}}

Revision as of 03:37, 26 March 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the Israeli attack helicopter Tzefa B. For other versions, see AH-1 (Family).
Tzefa B
ah_1q_iaf.png
GarageImage Tzefa B.jpg
Tzefa B
Israel flag.png Israel
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.0 9.0 9.0
Class:
Research:360 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:980 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Tzefa B was a further development of the AH-1G Tzefa A, intended to fill the lack of anti-tank quick response units in the helicopter units. It was conceived as an anti-armour version of the AH-1G, and as such, it was fitted with 8 x BGM-71C TOW (SACLOS) ATGMs for use against enemy units such as tanks and other armoured vehicles. The vehicle entered limited service in 1975, with more units being delivered in 1979.

Introduced in Update "Danger Zone" alongside the initial Israeli helicopter tech tree, the Tzefa B has the good manoeuvrability and speed of other AH-1 variants, but with the extra flexibility offered by the new TOW missiles that older variants such as the Tzefa A are lacking. This allows the Tzefa B to be used in close combat or long range combat. For long range options, pilots can make use of the good agility and speed of the Cobra to quickly change positions and hide behind cover to avoid being shot down by enemy SPAA.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 1 000 m277 km/h
Max altitude3 475 m
EngineLycoming Engines T53-L-11
Power1 100 hp
Take-off weight4 t

As an attack helicopter, the Tzefa B has very good flight performance at low-medium altitudes, however it becomes more sluggish at high altitudes. In realistic battles with full load, takeoff can be hard as the throttle can not be put at 100% without engine problems, instead, it should be kept at around 80%. It reaches 260 km/h in a straight line with ease, and retains also very good manoeuvrability in low level flight.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 1,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres)
AB RB
Stock 258 246 3475
Upgraded 296 277

Survivability and armour

Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural450 km/h
Gear420 km/h
Tzefa B armour layout in the Hangar
  • 12 mm steel plate - Engine
  • 12 mm steel plate - Below and behind pilot
  • 20 mm composite boron-carbide - Around the Pilot/Gunner
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks: 2 in central fuselage

The Tzefa B is not very survivable, it relies on its speed and manoeuvrability to survive. While fuel tanks are self-sealing, their position makes them prone to catch fire even to the HMGs of enemy tanks. However the armour around the pilot's is enough to stop shots coming from the HMGs of the enemy tanks once the AA threat has been eliminated.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB10 180 → 13 295 Sl icon.png
RB3 180 → 4 153 Sl icon.png
SB5 373 → 7 017 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications278 000 Rp icon.png
428 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 300 Ge icon.png
Crew training280 000 Sl icon.png
Experts980 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 000 Ge icon.png
Research Aces830 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
100 / 300 / 430 % Sl icon.png
208 / 208 / 208 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
190 Ge icon.png
Mods cd 98 main rotor.png
Replacing helicopter blades
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
69 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
105 000 Sl icon.png
1 200 Ge icon.png
Mods heli flak jacket.png
Flak jacket
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
190 Ge icon.png
Mods heli structure.png
Helicopter frame
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
30 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
46 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
M163_Minigun_new_gun
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
190 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
M200A1
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
190 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods gunpods.png
Gun pod M18A1
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
190 Ge icon.png
Mods cannon.png
M129
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
TOW
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
grenade_launcher_M129_new_gun
Research:
30 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
46 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
TOW 4
Research:
30 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
46 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Pilots should prioritize getting the TOW 4 Anti Tank Missiles and the M-129 40 mm grenade launchers since this can take out with ease medium and light targets from above. After that, get the EFS modification, the Flak jacket to protect the pilots and finish up the rest of the performance area.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main articles: M129 (40 mm), M134 Minigun (7.62 mm)

The Tzefa B is armed with:

  • A choice between two presets:
    • 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (4,000 rpg = 8,000 total)
    • 2 x 40 mm M129 cannons (300 rpg = 600 total)

The 7.62 mm MGs have an amazing rate of fire, and another 2 can be added in the inner pylons, however this weapons lack the penetration to be effective against ground targets, instead, this can be more effective against enemy planes, helicopters or used in PvE Helicopter Battles against light targets.

Suspended armament

The Tzefa B can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4
Hardpoints Tzefa A.png
7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg) 1 1
FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets 7, 19 7, 19 7, 19 7, 19
BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles 2, 4 2, 4
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 28 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
  • 4 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
  • 8 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles

The Tzefa B packs a havy punch thanks to its very diverse ladout. The AGMs should always be part of the combat loadout since they offer the capabilities to confront enemy forces from kilometres away. The rockets are also a very interesting choice, since they have a good amount of ammunition and are very capable in CQB alongside the 40 mm grenade launchers. The MGs in the other hand lack any sort of penetration to be used against ground targets except in Helicopter PVE Battles. However these MGs are excellent at taking out fighters and other helicopters from short range thanks to their amazing rate of fire and generous amount of ammo.

Usage in battles

The Tzefa B is best used in flanking manoeuvres, using its excellent low level speed and agility to shot AGMs from far away and then run back to cover behind mountains or buildings and change positions to confuse enemy SPAA. Frontal attacks are not recommended in the Tzefa B, even when used in close range fights, since enemy SPAAs will have an easy time shooting you down when flying directly to them.

Close Range Combat

If used in a close range assault the Tzefa B should be fitted with the 40 mm grenade launchers and all the rocket pylons, this allows to shoot several salvos of rockets to the enemy units and still retain a decent amount of ammo. While doing so, coming from the sides of the map and neutralizing the enemy frontline SPAA should be a priority, since once the SPAA has been destroyed, the armour of the Tzefa B should be enough to hold against some shots from the enemy's roof mounted HMGs.

Long Range Combat Usage

In long range combat with AGMs, a good idea would be to use the 7.62 mm miniguns to attack enemy aircraft or helicopters that may be a threat to you, many times jets would get slow trying to get a shot at your helicopter, so you could strike back with the amazing rate of fire of the miniguns. The AGMs can also be used against helicopters, when changing firing positions, hiding from the enemy SPAA and launching AGMs at enemy helicopters that are too focused or distracted is a good way to help your team in a support role.

Helicopter PVE

In Helicopter PVE Battles, the priority targets of all pilots should be the ground AA units, so that attack helicopters only equipped with rockets can go and destroy the rest of the units. Pilots can also participate in this attacks once the AA has been neutralized, with a custom loadout with the 40 mm grenade launchers, 8 x AGMs and 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Very good flight performance at low-medium altitudes
  • Relatively small target compared to other helicopters
  • Miniguns can't jam, they just overheat
  • Very good AGMs for use against enemy armour
  • The 40 mm grenade launchers are very good against light units
  • Has a Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)

Cons:

  • Very bad penetration for the Miniguns
  • The 40 mm grenade launchers may be tricky to aim
  • Slow climb rate when fully loaded
  • Mediocre flight performance at high altitudes
  • Slow AGMs compared to other similar BR helicopters

History

AH-1Q from the US army in Texas (Same model as the one used by Israel, the Tzefa B)

The Bell AH-1Q Tzefa B was a version of the AH-1G equipped for anti-armour duties. The Tzefa B used by the IDF was a result of the identification of the need for weapons system that could respond to ground-based threats quickly and effectively. Six units were ordered using the AH-1G as a basis with good results with six more units ordered and later delivered in 1979.

The Tzefa B was used first in 1979 and alongside other Cobras was very active in combat in Lebanon. They also participated in the Lebanon War of 1982, with great success in the destruction of Syrian armoured forces, fortifications, and conducting raids against enemy logistics.

The Tzefa B could be equipped with rockets, a cannon/MG turret, infrared sights and 8 BGM-71 130 mm TOWs mounted in a pair of pods on the outboard pylons for use against heavy targets like tanks and IFVs.

Media

Videos
AH-1 Cobra Ultimate Review - Bob Dickinson

See also

Related development

External links


Bell Aircraft Corporation
Aircraft 
Fighters  P-39N-0 · P-39Q-5
  P-400
  P-63A-10 · P-63A-5 · P-63C-5 · ␠Kingcobra
Jet Fighters  P-59A
Export  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▄P-39Q-25
  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5 · ▄P-63C-5
Helicopters 
Attack  AH-1F · AH-1G · AH-1Z · AH-1W
  OH-58D
Utility  UH-1B · UH-1C · UH-1C XM-30
Export/Licensed  ▅UH-1B · ◄UH-1D
  Tzefa A · Tzefa B · Tzefa D/E · ▅AH-1S early · ▅AH-1S · ▅AH-1S Kisarazu · ␗AH-1W
  ␗OH-58D
See Also  Fuji Heavy Industries · Agusta

Israel helicopters
Attack 
MD 500  Lahatut
Battle Hawk  AH-60
Cobra  Tzefa D/E · Tzefa A · Tzefa B
Apache  Saraph · Peten · AH-64A Peten

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