Difference between revisions of "AH-1F"

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{{Specs-Card|code=ah_1f}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = American attack helicopter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = American attack helicopter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = AH-1 (Family)
 
| link = AH-1 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=ah_1f
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it 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.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left|The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' in the garage]]
+
The [[AH-1G]] performed very well during the Vietnam War, however, new times demanded new requirements. A large-scale upgrade programme was launched, resulting in a whole family of new models as the modernisation stages proceeded. The most advanced single-engined version of the Cobra was the '''AH-1F''', incorporating all the latest developments - a more powerful engine, advanced navigation systems, and electronic warfare equipment. A total of around 150 AH-1Fs were built and another approximately 300 were converted from previous modifications. Helicopters of this type were actively used in the 1991 Gulf War.
−
{{break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American attack helicopter {{Battle-rating}}. This helicopter was introduced in [[Update 1.81 "The Valkyries"]].  
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.81 "The Valkyries"]], the AH-1F features a number of upgrades, including a head-up display, IRCM mounted above the engine exhaust, and an infrared suppressor within the engine exhaust system. As a dedicated attack helicopter, it is outfitted with stub wings that can carry BGM-71 TOW missiles or Hydra-70 rockets, a chin-mounted gun turret, and an armoured tandem cockpit. As one of the first Cobras to be outfitted with thermal imaging equipment, the AH-1F can quickly locate opponents in a crowded area and target enemy armour with its TOW/TOW-2 missiles. However, it does lack countermeasures to decoy SAMs and AAMs.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, manoeuvrability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
The AH-1F has a single turboshaft T53-L-703 power plant, which provides up to 1800 shp (transmission limited to 1290) & 210 kgf with a mass of 350 kg. This turboshaft engine is able to push the AH-1F to speeds in excess of 277 km/h whilst carrying wing mounted armaments.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Characteristics
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 1,000 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | ''Stock''
+
! AB !! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 m)
+
! Stock
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
| 258 || 247 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}}
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! Upgraded
−
! RB
+
| 288 || 277
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ? || ? || {{Specs|ceiling}}  
+
|}
−
|-
+
 
−
! colspan="4" | ''Upgraded''
+
=== Survivability and 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.'' -->
 +
The AH-1F is an armoured attack helicopter offering protection to the crew and engine:
 +
 
 +
* Composite boron carbide seat enclosures, for both of the crew, with a thickness of 20 mm.
 +
* A steel seat, which offers a thickness of 12 mm for the pilot only.
 +
* Steel plate covers, offering 12 mm of thickness over the turboshaft engine.
 +
 
 +
The AH-1F compensates with its small and nimble size compared to the [[Mi-24_(Family)|Mi-24 Hinds]] which are incredibly well armoured but are huge and slow in comparison. However, the AH-1F does not protect all of its critical components, such as: fuel tanks, transmission, propeller shaft & control surfaces with armour plating. Nor does it have armoured glass installed around the cockpit.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 
 +
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Heli-Armaments}}
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 m)
+
! colspan="3" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs)
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ? || ? || {{Specs|ceiling}}  
+
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
−
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
−
''Examine the survivability of the helicopter. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, how many engines the vehicle has. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
 
−
 
−
== Armaments ==
 
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
<!--''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''-->
+
{{Specs-Heli-Offensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the helicopter, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in battle, also what ammunition belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|M197 (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|M197 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg = 750 total)
+
* 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon, chin turret (750 rpg)
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
The AH-1F offers a wide range of choice for secondary armament, up to 12 choices:
+
{{Specs-Heli-Suspended}}
−
*No suspended armament
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
*28 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
 
−
*76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
−
*2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine gun
+
 
−
*2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine gun & 14 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
*2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine gun & 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
|-
−
*4 x BGM-71 TOW missiles
+
! !! width="11%" | 1 !! width="11%" | 2 !! width="11%" | 3 !! width="11%" | 4
−
*4 x BGM-71 TOW missiles & 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine gun
+
| rowspan="4" width="20%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_AH-1G_(Israel).png]]</div>
−
*4 x BGM-71 TOW missiles & 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
|-
−
*8 x BGM-71 TOW missiles
+
! [[Hydra-70 M247]] rockets
−
*8 x BGM-71 TOW missiles & 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
| 7, 19 || 7, 19 || 7, 19 || 7, 19
−
*8 x BGM-71 TOW missiles & 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine gun
+
|-
 +
! [[BGM-71C Improved TOW]] missiles
 +
| 2, 4 || || || 2, 4
 +
|-
 +
! [[BGM-71D TOW-2]] missiles
 +
| 2, 4 || || || 2, 4
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
* Without load
 +
* 28 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
 +
* 76 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
 +
* 4 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
 +
* 8 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
 +
* 4 x BGM-71D TOW-2 missiles
 +
* 8 x BGM-71D TOW-2 missiles
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 +
When playing the AH-1F, select the helipad which is in the ideal tactical location for your playstyle. Climb to around 1500 meters, find a target, then descend on to them. It is critically important that you engage them from the rear of side. This way, it reduces their awareness of you, since they will be looking forward, this will help you by making the adversary become disoriented when attacked. This will give you a stealthy advantage, like a ninja.
 +
Advancing onto the target, come in as fast as possible, then slow down quickly, by raising the noise of the helicopter up. When slowed down, Engage the sight stabilizer and fire the tow missile and guide it onto the target.
  
−
When playing the AH-1F, select the helipad, which is in the ideal tactical location for your playstyle. Climb to around 1500 Meters, find a target, then descend on to them. It is critically important that you engage them from the rear of side. This way, it reduces their awareness of you, since they will be looking forward, this will help you by making the adversary become disoriented when attacked. This will give you a stealthy advantage, like a ninja.
+
If the target starts moving, rolling or starts trying to evade, keep the missile on the target and adjust to what your adversary is doing. Until you see an explosion, the target going down in flames whilst the reward and notification are showing up.
−
Advancing onto the target, come in as fast as possible, then slow down quickly, by rising the noise of the helicopter up. When slowed down, Engage the sight stabilizer and fire the tow missile and guide it onto the target.  
 
  
−
If the target starts moving, rolling or starts trying to evade, keep the missile on the target and adjust to what your adversary is doing. Until you see an explosion, the target going down in flames whilst the reward and notification are showing up. 
+
If out of the range, the missile will self-detonate and could give your position away, if your adversary looks around.
−
If out of the range, the missile will self-detonate and could give your position away, if your adversary looks around.  
 
  
−
{{Notice|Remember you only have around one and a half miles before the missiles will denote by them self, you can only select to carry either 4 or 8 BG-71 Tow missiles.|!!}}  
+
{{Notice|Remember, you only have around one and a half miles before the missiles will detonate by themselves, so you can only carry either 4 or 8 BG-71 Tow missiles at a time.|!}}
  
−
How to overcome this, with enough time spent playing with the BG-71 missiles, you will be able to determine when you are within range based on your experience. This also applies to any other type of missile in the game too.  
+
To overcome this, with enough time spent playing with the BG-71 missiles, you will be able to determine when you are within range based on your experience. This also applies to any other type of missile in the game too.
  
−
When engaging in Close quarters combat with other helicopters, the biggest threats are air to air missiles. Since the AH-1F only offers limited protection against them with countermeasures with it's  IRCM module. This means, you need to stay alert, active & on the look out for fast moving dots. If you see a small fast dot heading towards you, make very sharp abrupt turns, change height at the same time while turning and rolling.  
+
When engaging in Close quarters combat with other helicopters, the biggest threats are air-to-air missiles. Since the AH-1F only offers limited protection against them with countermeasures with its IRCM module. This means you need to stay alert, active & on the lookout for fast moving dots. If you see a small fast dot heading towards you, make very sharp abrupt turns, change height at the same time while turning and rolling.
  
−
{{Notice|You may even be able to shoot the missile down with the installed 20mm triple rotary M197 cannon.|!}}  
+
{{Notice|These are the biggest threats to you in battle, since they can carry air-to-air missiles.|!!}}
  
−
When engaging other helicopters, the triple barrel rotary cannon makes short work of any adversary. Make sure to load it with the air target belt, aim for critical elements of the rival helicopters such as cockpit, engine and fuel tanks.  
+
*[[AH-1Z|AH-1Z Viper]]
−
Now if you have equipped your helicopter with the additional 2x M134 miniguns 7.62mm machine guns, Bring your target in front of you and open fire. They will obliterate the target and send it smoking to the ground, they have up to 3000 rounds in total. That’s 1500 Rounds per mini gun, in addition to the 750 cannon rounds for the M197, that is potentially up to 3750 rounds! 
+
*[[Mi-24P|Mi-24P Hind]]
 +
*[[Mi-24V|Mi-24V Hind]]
 +
*[[Mi-35M]]
 +
*[[Ka-50]]
 +
*[[SA.341F_Gazelle|SA.341F Gazelle]]
 +
*[[SA.342M_Gazelle|SA.342M Gazelle]]
 +
*[[EC-665 Tiger HAD]]
 +
*[[EC-665 Tiger HAP]]
 +
*[[EC-665 Tiger UHT]]
  
−
====Ground forces====
+
{{Notice|Do keep in mind that you may be able to shoot down missiles with the installed 20 mm triple rotary M197 cannon.|!}}
−
 
−
Playing the AH-1F in ground forces, it is recommended to load up the 8x BG-71 Tow missiles & 38x FFAR Might mouse missiles.  The BG-71 will give you the penetration at range in order to terminate tankers and with safety from the Anti-Aircraft Missile equipped anti-air vehicles. It is a wise tactic that Anti-Aircraft Missile equipped anti-air vehicles to be terminated first. Then once terminated, move into the battlefield and dominate the tanks with the 38x FFAR Might mouse missiles, which can cause a lot of damage and could potentially terminate up to 38 tanks with well-placed shots.  
 
  
−
The ideal tactic is to utilise the helicopter and the terrain.  Such as maps which have forests and lots of tree lines, stay low over the trees and select your targets based on the threat to yourself first, then the impact to the team.  
+
When engaging other helicopters, the triple barrel rotary cannon makes short work of any adversary. Make sure to load it with the air target belt, aim for critical elements of the rival helicopters such as cockpit, engine and fuel tanks.
  
−
For example, if you have seen no enemy SPAA vehicles or other helicopters, climb in height, hover, then fire one or two missiles. Then quickly break off the hover and move to another part of the map, this way it allows you to stay undetected, remain stealthy  and become a major threat to the enemy team. 
+
====Ground forces====
−
 
−
Handling radar and Surface to Air missiles, when an enemy missile equipped SPAA is achieving a lock on, you will be notified with red arrows on the screen saying radar. To break the lock start rolling, gaining speed and the arrows will go away.  If you are not successful, keep a close watch around the helicopter. At this you will see white smoke coming from the ground, make very sharp abrupt turns. Change height at the same time while turning and rolling to avoid the missile.
 
−
 
−
{{Notice|Keep a close watch out for airplanes and other attack helicopters!|!!!}}
 
  
 +
Playing the AH-1F in ground forces, it is recommended to load up the 8x BG-71 Tow missiles & 38x FFAR Might mouse missiles. The BG-71 will give you the penetration at range in order to terminate tankers and with safety from the Anti-Aircraft Missile equipped anti-air vehicles. It is a wise tactic that Anti-Aircraft Missile equipped anti-air vehicles to be terminated first. Then once terminated, move into the battlefield and dominate the tanks with the 38 x FFAR Might mouse missiles, which can cause a lot of damage and could potentially terminate up to 38 tanks with well-placed shots.
  
 +
The ideal tactic is to utilise the helicopter and the terrain. Such as maps which have forests and lots of tree lines, stay low over the trees and select your targets based on the threat to yourself first, then the impact to the team.
  
 +
For example, if you have seen no enemy SPAA vehicles or other helicopters, climb in height, hover, then fire one or two missiles. Then quickly break off the hover and move to another part of the map, this way it allows you to stay undetected, remain stealthy and become a major threat to the enemy team.
  
 +
Handling radar and Surface to Air missiles, when an enemy missile equipped SPAA is achieving a lock on, you will be notified with red arrows on the screen saying radar. To break the lock start rolling, gaining speed and the arrows will go away. If you are not successful, keep a close watch around the helicopter. At this, you will see white smoke coming from the ground, make very sharp abrupt turns. Change height at the same time while turning and rolling to avoid the missile.
  
−
===Modules===
+
{{Notice|Keep a close watch out for airplanes and other attack helicopters!|!!!}}
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
|
 
−
| Flack jacket
 
−
|Offensive 20 mm belts
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
| Helicopter frame
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
| M261
 
−
| IRCM
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Engine
 
−
| Replacing helicopter blades
 
−
|
 
−
| Gun pod XM-18
 
−
| TOW
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 7 mm MGs
 
−
| TOW 4
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--''Summarize 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 - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "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:'''
  
−
* 20mm gun performs better against heavy armor than the 7.62mm minigun.
+
* 20 mm is effective against light armor
−
* Great manoeuvrability  
+
* Great manoeuvrability
−
* Very agile, with secondary load outs installed  
+
* Very agile, with secondary load outs installed
−
* Great acceleration, very quick  
+
* Great acceleration, very quick
−
* Good secondary weapon load out
+
* Good secondary weapon loadout
−
 
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* No flairs
+
* No flares
−
* No sidewinder Air to Air missiles
+
* Cannot equip air-to-air missiles
 +
* 3.75 km range on its air-to-ground missiles
  
 
== 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 big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article.''
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 +
The AH-1F was born as the last iteration of the single engine variant of the Cobra helicopters. The development of this model can be traced back to the AH-1Q Huey Cobra, which was basically an [[AH-1G]] with several systems attached to it, such as the XM65 TOW missile subsystem (which allowed it to operate the [[BGM-71 TOW]]), M73 reflex sight and a Telescopic Sight Unit (TSU). All 92 of the AH-1Q's were AH-1G's that had been modified. After this model was tested, it was determined that the helicopters lacked the horsepower to perform NOE flight and a few upgrades such as a new more powerful T53-L-703 engine with a 1800 hp output, and several electronic changes were made to it. By this moment, it was known as AH-1S (Mod) or Modified. Eventually, all of the AH-1Q's were reworked and updated to AH-1S (Mod) or later variants.
 +
 
 +
The AH-1S had also several modernizations, known as "Step" modernizations. The AH-1S Step I (Also known as AH-1P) modernization program  with the upgrades listed above, and a new cockpit that included composite materials to enhance protection. The AH-1S Step 2 (Also known as AH-1E) introduced the Enhanced Cobra Armament System (ECAS), which included the 20 mm M197 rotary cannon, fitted into a M97A1 turret system.
 +
 
 +
The AH-1F Included both the Step I and II upgrades, alongside upgrades on its armament system, a laser rangefinder, an IR suppressor mounted on the engine exhaust, and a IR dazzler, mounted on top of the engine. One Prototype Model 249, a AH-1S with a 4 bladed main rotor system, was created to be sold to US Army as an armed scout for the Apache Helicopter with advanced sighting systems that could also carry Hellfire missiles but was not purchased. The Model 249 was also offered to Germany as a proposed Attack helicopter but was also not purchased.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ah_1f Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="100">
 +
File:AH1F_S_USARMY.jpg|Standard camouflage initially available for the {{PAGENAME}} in-game
 +
File:AH1f_SandShark_SV.jpg|''Sand Shark'' Camouflage - purchasable for 200 Golden Eagles
 +
File:AH1F_IDF.jpg|''Tzefa'' of the Israeli Air Force - Semi-historical camouflage: Marketplace
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 001.jpg
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 002.jpg
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 003.jpg
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 004.jpg
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 005.jpg
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 006.jpg
 +
File:AH-1F WTWallpaper 007.jpg
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|zYbcq-KOpFE|'''AH-1 Cobra Ultimate Review''' - ''Bob Dickinson''|6QZAY1EtkFU|'''The Shooting Range #110''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 05:44 discusses the AH-1 Cobra.}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''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 aircraft;''
+
* ''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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Related development
 +
 
 +
* Bell [[AH-1 (Family)|AH-1]] Cobra
 +
 
 +
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 +
 
 +
* Agusta [[A-129 International|A129]] Mangusta
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on helicopter;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''-->
+
 
−
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5709-development-mi-24-and-ah-1f-rotorcraft-icons-en [Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> Mi-24 and AH-1F: Rotorcraft Icons]
+
* [[wt:en/news/5709-development-mi-24-and-ah-1f-rotorcraft-icons-en|[Devblog] Mi-24 and AH-1F: Rotorcraft Icons]]
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 
{{USA helicopters}}
 
{{USA helicopters}}
−
[[Category:Countermeasures]]
 

Latest revision as of 19:35, 14 August 2024

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the American attack helicopter AH-1F. For other versions, see AH-1 (Family).
AH-1F
ah_1f.png
GarageImage AH-1F.jpg
AH-1F
USA flag.png USA
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.7 9.7 9.7
Class:
Research:370 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:990 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
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Description

The AH-1G performed very well during the Vietnam War, however, new times demanded new requirements. A large-scale upgrade programme was launched, resulting in a whole family of new models as the modernisation stages proceeded. The most advanced single-engined version of the Cobra was the AH-1F, incorporating all the latest developments - a more powerful engine, advanced navigation systems, and electronic warfare equipment. A total of around 150 AH-1Fs were built and another approximately 300 were converted from previous modifications. Helicopters of this type were actively used in the 1991 Gulf War.

Introduced in Update 1.81 "The Valkyries", the AH-1F features a number of upgrades, including a head-up display, IRCM mounted above the engine exhaust, and an infrared suppressor within the engine exhaust system. As a dedicated attack helicopter, it is outfitted with stub wings that can carry BGM-71 TOW missiles or Hydra-70 rockets, a chin-mounted gun turret, and an armoured tandem cockpit. As one of the first Cobras to be outfitted with thermal imaging equipment, the AH-1F can quickly locate opponents in a crowded area and target enemy armour with its TOW/TOW-2 missiles. However, it does lack countermeasures to decoy SAMs and AAMs.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 1 000 m277 km/h
Max altitude3 475 m
EngineLycoming Engines T53-L-703
Power1 300 hp
Take-off weight5 t

The AH-1F has a single turboshaft T53-L-703 power plant, which provides up to 1800 shp (transmission limited to 1290) & 210 kgf with a mass of 350 kg. This turboshaft engine is able to push the AH-1F to speeds in excess of 277 km/h whilst carrying wing mounted armaments.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 1,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres)
AB RB
Stock 258 247 3475
Upgraded 288 277

Survivability and armour

IRCM
Protects against IR-guided missiles
Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural450 km/h
Gear420 km/h

The AH-1F is an armoured attack helicopter offering protection to the crew and engine:

  • Composite boron carbide seat enclosures, for both of the crew, with a thickness of 20 mm.
  • A steel seat, which offers a thickness of 12 mm for the pilot only.
  • Steel plate covers, offering 12 mm of thickness over the turboshaft engine.

The AH-1F compensates with its small and nimble size compared to the Mi-24 Hinds which are incredibly well armoured but are huge and slow in comparison. However, the AH-1F does not protect all of its critical components, such as: fuel tanks, transmission, propeller shaft & control surfaces with armour plating. Nor does it have armoured glass installed around the cockpit.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB9 229 → 13 197 Sl icon.png
RB3 963 → 5 667 Sl icon.png
SB5 488 → 7 847 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications285 000 Rp icon.png
426 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 400 Ge icon.png
Crew training280 000 Sl icon.png
Experts990 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces890 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
100 / 290 / 430 % Sl icon.png
214 / 214 / 214 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods cd 98 main rotor.png
Replacing helicopter blades
Research:
22 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
33 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods heli flak jacket.png
Flak jacket
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods heli structure.png
Helicopter frame
Research:
22 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
33 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
31 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
46 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
t_160_belt_pack
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
M261 LWL
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods counterMeasures.png
IRCM
Research:
22 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
33 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
t_160_new_gun
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
TOW
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
TOW-2
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
TOW 4
Research:
31 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
46 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
TOW-2 4
Research:
31 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
46 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Night vision devices
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night
Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs)
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon RedXCross.png

Offensive armament

Main article: M197 (20 mm)

The AH-1F is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon, chin turret (750 rpg)

Suspended armament

The AH-1F can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4
Hardpoints Tzefa A.png
Hydra-70 M247 rockets 7, 19 7, 19 7, 19 7, 19
BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles 2, 4 2, 4
BGM-71D TOW-2 missiles 2, 4 2, 4
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 28 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
  • 76 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
  • 4 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
  • 8 x BGM-71C Improved TOW missiles
  • 4 x BGM-71D TOW-2 missiles
  • 8 x BGM-71D TOW-2 missiles

Usage in battles

When playing the AH-1F, select the helipad which is in the ideal tactical location for your playstyle. Climb to around 1500 meters, find a target, then descend on to them. It is critically important that you engage them from the rear of side. This way, it reduces their awareness of you, since they will be looking forward, this will help you by making the adversary become disoriented when attacked. This will give you a stealthy advantage, like a ninja. Advancing onto the target, come in as fast as possible, then slow down quickly, by raising the noise of the helicopter up. When slowed down, Engage the sight stabilizer and fire the tow missile and guide it onto the target.

If the target starts moving, rolling or starts trying to evade, keep the missile on the target and adjust to what your adversary is doing. Until you see an explosion, the target going down in flames whilst the reward and notification are showing up.

If out of the range, the missile will self-detonate and could give your position away, if your adversary looks around.

Msg-important.png Remember, you only have around one and a half miles before the missiles will detonate by themselves, so you can only carry either 4 or 8 BG-71 Tow missiles at a time.

To overcome this, with enough time spent playing with the BG-71 missiles, you will be able to determine when you are within range based on your experience. This also applies to any other type of missile in the game too.

When engaging in Close quarters combat with other helicopters, the biggest threats are air-to-air missiles. Since the AH-1F only offers limited protection against them with countermeasures with its IRCM module. This means you need to stay alert, active & on the lookout for fast moving dots. If you see a small fast dot heading towards you, make very sharp abrupt turns, change height at the same time while turning and rolling.

Msg-warning.png These are the biggest threats to you in battle, since they can carry air-to-air missiles.
Msg-important.png Do keep in mind that you may be able to shoot down missiles with the installed 20 mm triple rotary M197 cannon.

When engaging other helicopters, the triple barrel rotary cannon makes short work of any adversary. Make sure to load it with the air target belt, aim for critical elements of the rival helicopters such as cockpit, engine and fuel tanks.

Ground forces

Playing the AH-1F in ground forces, it is recommended to load up the 8x BG-71 Tow missiles & 38x FFAR Might mouse missiles. The BG-71 will give you the penetration at range in order to terminate tankers and with safety from the Anti-Aircraft Missile equipped anti-air vehicles. It is a wise tactic that Anti-Aircraft Missile equipped anti-air vehicles to be terminated first. Then once terminated, move into the battlefield and dominate the tanks with the 38 x FFAR Might mouse missiles, which can cause a lot of damage and could potentially terminate up to 38 tanks with well-placed shots.

The ideal tactic is to utilise the helicopter and the terrain. Such as maps which have forests and lots of tree lines, stay low over the trees and select your targets based on the threat to yourself first, then the impact to the team.

For example, if you have seen no enemy SPAA vehicles or other helicopters, climb in height, hover, then fire one or two missiles. Then quickly break off the hover and move to another part of the map, this way it allows you to stay undetected, remain stealthy and become a major threat to the enemy team.

Handling radar and Surface to Air missiles, when an enemy missile equipped SPAA is achieving a lock on, you will be notified with red arrows on the screen saying radar. To break the lock start rolling, gaining speed and the arrows will go away. If you are not successful, keep a close watch around the helicopter. At this, you will see white smoke coming from the ground, make very sharp abrupt turns. Change height at the same time while turning and rolling to avoid the missile.

Msg-info.png Keep a close watch out for airplanes and other attack helicopters!

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • 20 mm is effective against light armor
  • Great manoeuvrability
  • Very agile, with secondary load outs installed
  • Great acceleration, very quick
  • Good secondary weapon loadout

Cons:

  • No flares
  • Cannot equip air-to-air missiles
  • 3.75 km range on its air-to-ground missiles

History

The AH-1F was born as the last iteration of the single engine variant of the Cobra helicopters. The development of this model can be traced back to the AH-1Q Huey Cobra, which was basically an AH-1G with several systems attached to it, such as the XM65 TOW missile subsystem (which allowed it to operate the BGM-71 TOW), M73 reflex sight and a Telescopic Sight Unit (TSU). All 92 of the AH-1Q's were AH-1G's that had been modified. After this model was tested, it was determined that the helicopters lacked the horsepower to perform NOE flight and a few upgrades such as a new more powerful T53-L-703 engine with a 1800 hp output, and several electronic changes were made to it. By this moment, it was known as AH-1S (Mod) or Modified. Eventually, all of the AH-1Q's were reworked and updated to AH-1S (Mod) or later variants.

The AH-1S had also several modernizations, known as "Step" modernizations. The AH-1S Step I (Also known as AH-1P) modernization program with the upgrades listed above, and a new cockpit that included composite materials to enhance protection. The AH-1S Step 2 (Also known as AH-1E) introduced the Enhanced Cobra Armament System (ECAS), which included the 20 mm M197 rotary cannon, fitted into a M97A1 turret system.

The AH-1F Included both the Step I and II upgrades, alongside upgrades on its armament system, a laser rangefinder, an IR suppressor mounted on the engine exhaust, and a IR dazzler, mounted on top of the engine. One Prototype Model 249, a AH-1S with a 4 bladed main rotor system, was created to be sold to US Army as an armed scout for the Apache Helicopter with advanced sighting systems that could also carry Hellfire missiles but was not purchased. The Model 249 was also offered to Germany as a proposed Attack helicopter but was also not purchased.

Media

Skins

  • Standard camouflage initially available for the AH-1F in-game

  • Sand Shark Camouflage - purchasable for 200 Golden Eagles

  • Tzefa of the Israeli Air Force - Semi-historical camouflage: Marketplace

Images
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 001.jpg
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 002.jpg
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 003.jpg
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 004.jpg
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 005.jpg
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 006.jpg
  • AH-1F WTWallpaper 007.jpg
Videos
AH-1 Cobra Ultimate Review - Bob Dickinson
The Shooting Range #110 - Pages of History section at 05:44 discusses the AH-1 Cobra.

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
  • Agusta A129 Mangusta

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

USA helicopters
Attack 
Black Hawk  MH-60L DAP
Choctaw  H-34
Cobra  AH-1F · AH-1G · AH-1Z
SuperCobra  AH-1W
Kiowa  OH-58D
Little Bird  AH-6M
Apache  YAH-64 · AH-64A · ▃AH-64A Peten · AH-64A (GR) · AH-64D
Utility 
Huey  UH-1B · UH-1C · UH-1C XM-30

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