Difference between revisions of "AH-1Z"

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{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = American attack helicopter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = American attack helicopter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other variants
 
| link = AH-1 (Family)
 
| link = AH-1 (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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]]
+
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
−
{{break}}
+
{{Break}}
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American attack helicopter {{Battle-rating}}. This helicopter was introduced in [[Update 1.81 "The Valkyries"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American attack helicopter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.81 "The Valkyries"]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, manoeuverability, speed 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.''
 +
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Characteristics
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="4" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 1,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 1,000 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
−
|-
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
|-
 
−
| 394 || 383 || 6000
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="4" | ''Upgraded''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 1,000 m)
+
! AB !! RB
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! Stock
−
! RB
+
| 382 || 366 || rowspan="2" | 6,000 <!-- {{Specs|ceiling}} -->
 
|-
 
|-
−
|426|| 411 || 6000
+
! Upgraded
 +
| 426 || 411
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== 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.''-->
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
  
 
* 12 mm steel - engine
 
* 12 mm steel - engine
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* 12 mm steel - pilot seat
 
* 12 mm steel - pilot seat
  
−
When fighting the AH-1Z, it is always a good bet to get the "High Ground" or altitude advantage of this vehicle. Try to strafe it and get around to its blinds spot, as it can't use the tail rotor effectively when moving, and will yaw and flip when making a strong attempt to turn-on-target. Always aim for the cockpit, as one the gunner is knocked out the turret becomes unusable. When coming up against a Zulu with gun pods, or and secondary weapons (Especially the lethal AIM-9L), know that the pilot can still fire these even if the Gunner in knocked out. However, it is unlikely that a Zulu will take a gun pod over a full missile rack.
+
When fighting the AH-1Z, it is always a good bet to get the "High Ground" or altitude advantage of this vehicle. Try to strafe it and get around to its blinds spot, as it can't use the tail rotor effectively when moving, and will yaw and flip when making a strong attempt to turn-on-target. Always aim for the cockpit, as one the gunner is knocked out the turret becomes unusable. When coming up against a Zulu with gun pods or secondary weapons (especially the lethal AIM-9L), know that the pilot can still fire these even if the gunner is knocked out. However, it is unlikely that a Zulu will take a gun pod over a full missile rack.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
<!--''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.''-->
+
<!-- ''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)|AIM-9L Sidewinder}}
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is outfitted with the following offensive weapons:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
1 x 20 mm M197 Minigun (750 total rounds)
+
* A choice between three presets:
 +
** 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg)
 +
** 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg) + 120 x Flares
 +
** 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg) + 120 x Flares + 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. 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.'' -->
−
{{main|Hydra-70 M247|AGM-114B Hellfire|M134 Minigun (7.62 mm)}}
+
{{main|AGM-114B Hellfire|Hydra-70 M247|M134 Minigun (7.62 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
Line 67: Line 61:
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
 
* 76 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
 
* 76 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
−
* 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns
+
* 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
−
* 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets + 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns
+
* 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets + 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
−
* 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles + 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns
 
−
* 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets + 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles
 
 
* 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles
 
* 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles
 +
* 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles + 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
 +
* 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles + 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
 
* 16 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles
 
* 16 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles
  
−
==Usage in battles==
+
== Usage in battles ==
−
Using the AH-1Z Viper after the AH-1F requires learning time, the playstyle between this and the AH-1F has some unique differences such as ammunition, views and overall playstyle.  
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 +
Using the AH-1Z Viper after the AH-1F requires learning time, the playstyle between this and the AH-1F has some unique differences such as ammunition, views and overall playstyle.
 +
 
 +
The AH-1Z is an attack helicopter, it does this role very well, in fact, it is one of the best attack helicopters in the game, with speed up to 411 km/h (255 mph). The AH-1Z offers a large array of ordnance selections, from miniguns and rockets, to Hellfire missiles. In addition, the AH-1Z can carry a combination of missiles, rockets or miniguns together. To optimise your loadout, pick a role to specialise, air protection or ground attack, though this attack helicopter can do it all.
  
−
The AH-1Z is an attack helicopter, it does this role very well, in fact, it is one of the best attack helicopters in the game, with speed up to 411 kph (255 mph). The AH-1Z offers a large array of ordnance selections, from mini-guns, rockets and Hellfire missiles.  In addition, the AH-1Z Can carry a combination of missiles, rockets or mini-guns together.
+
To utilise the AH-1Z viper, make sure to adjust the tactics to the map, for example, on maps with rocks and hilly terrain, stay low and use cover whilst you get to into a position which will allow you to dominate the battlefield. For maps which are open and flat, climb to a high altitude and assess the situation, just make sure to scan the map and not get fixated on a location.
−
To get one of the best configurations, specialize in what you want to do, air protection or ground attack, either way, this attack helicopter can do it.  
 
  
−
To utilize the AH-1Z viper, make sure to adjust the tactics to the map, for example, maps, with rocks and hilly terrain, stay low and use it as cover whilst you get to into a position which will allow you to dominate the battlefield.  For maps which are open and flat, climb to a high altitude and assess the situation, just make sure to scan the map and not get fixed on a location.  
+
The AH-1Z has three main playstyles, the playstyles of this attack helicopter are focused around dominating in the following roles: medium & close range, long range, and air protection/support.
  
−
The AH-1Z has three main playstyles, the playstyles of this attack helicopter are focused around dominating in the following roles: Air Protection/Support, Medium & Close Range and Long Range.  
+
However, the AH-1Z does have one drawback, due to the increase in size changes to the centre of gravity in high pitch and tight turns, it is possible to lose control. It is advisable to always counteract by keeping the nose of the helicopter level or to lessen the turn radius. If required to do one, such as evading surface to air missiles, make sure that there is enough room to recover the helicopter in – ideally at least 1,000 feet and make sure to increase the pitch of the blades to a 100% to adjust for yawing.
  
−
However, the AH-1F does have one drawback, due to the increase in size changes to the centre of gravity in high pitch and tight turns, it is possible to lose control. It is advisable to always counteract by keeping the nose of the helicopter level or to lessen the turn radius. If required to do one, such as evading surface to air missiles, make sure that there is enough room to recover the helicopter in – ideally at least 1000 feet and make sure to increase the pitch of the blades to a 100% adjust for yawing.  
+
====Close/medium range====
 +
The AH-1Z offers a combination of wing-mounted ordnance and ordnance packages which are available from Rocket pods, Machine guns, Hellfire missiles.
  
−
====Close/medium Range====
+
In an nonupgraded configuration it can carry up to 76 x Hydra-70 rockets or two pods with machine guns, but taking them to the battle will reduce the amount of Hydras to 38. Using these weapons will force you to get close to the ground units and make the helicopter vulnerable to turret-mounted anti-air weapons or SPAAGs, so it is recommended to stay at very low altitude and use the high level speed to evade fire.
−
The AH-1Z offers a combination of wing-mounted ordnance and ordnance packages which are available from Rocket pods, Machine guns, Hellfire missiles.
 
  
−
In an nonupgraded configuration it can carry up to 76 Hydra-70 rockets or two pods with Machine guns, but taking them to the battle will reduce the amount of Hydras to 38. Using those weapons will force you to get close to the ground units and make the helicopter vulnerable to turret mounted anti-air weapons or SPAAGs, so it is recommended to stay at very low altitude and use its really high level speed.
+
Hydra rockets are not as reliable as long range AGMs, their accuracy is not great and in most cases even if the player manages to get close to the battlefield it will be able to destroy only a few units or disable their weapons and other components.
−
Hydra rockets are not as reliable as long range AGMs, their accuracy is not great and in most cases if the player manage to get close to the battlefield it will be able to destroy only a few units or disable their weapons and other components.
 
  
−
====Long Range - Hellfire missiles====  
+
====Long range - Hellfire missiles====
−
To utilize the long-range performance of the AH-1Z, hover outside of the combat zone. It is important that you check and make sure that there are no threats in the vicinity which could shoot you down. Once the combat zone has been declared safe from vehicles which could destroy you. Increase altitude, until you have a good visual on the objectives. Hover the helicopter, change the view to the gun camera and locate a target ground vehicle and fire! The Hellfire missiles offer up to 1100mm of penetration with a speed of 475 meters per second.  
+
To utilise the long-range performance of the AH-1Z, hover outside of the combat zone. It is important that you check and make sure that there are no threats in the vicinity which could shoot you down. Once the combat zone has been declared safe from vehicles which could destroy you. Increase altitude, until you have a good visual on the objectives. Hover the helicopter, change the view to the gun camera and locate a target ground vehicle and fire! The Hellfire missiles offer up to 1,100 mm of penetration with a speed of 475 meters per second.
  
−
Firing the Hellfire missiles, you will notice that you cannot see them. This is normal, you need to keep the laser designator on the target. On the HUD, left-hand side, you will see a countdown, it takes 10 seconds for the missile to hit the target. When the Hellfire gets close to the target you will see the rocket, this where you can adjust the missile trajectory.
+
Firing the Hellfire missiles, you will notice that you cannot see them. This is normal, you need to keep the laser designator on the target. On the HUD, left-hand side, you will see a countdown, it takes 10 seconds for the missile to hit the target. When the Hellfire gets close to the target you will see the rocket, this where you can adjust the missile trajectory.
  
−
It is very important that after a few Hellfire missile launches that, you disengage the hover and relocate to another part of the battle zone. Performing this action will substantially reduce the chances of being shot down by enemy vehicles.
+
It is very important that after a few Hellfire missile launches that, you disengage the hover and relocate to another part of the battle zone. Performing this action will substantially reduce the chances of being shot down by enemy vehicles.
  
−
One of the drawbacks of the Hellfire missiles is, at very close range they cannot engage a target, due to how the Hellfires are launched from the wing racks. The Hellfire missile drops from the wing rack then engages the rocket motor and immediately ascend in height, making it impossible to track from launch.
+
One of the drawbacks of the Hellfire missiles is, at very close range they cannot engage a target, due to how the Hellfires are launched from the wing racks. The Hellfire missile drops from the wing rack then engages the rocket motor and immediately ascend in height, making it impossible to track from launch.
  
−
{{Notice|The hellfire missiles require time to adapt, however once learnt they become one of the most potent missiles in the game.|!!!}}  
+
{{Notice|The Hellfire missiles require time to adapt to, however once learnt they become one of the most potent missiles in the game.|!!!}}
  
−
====Air Protection/support====
+
====Air protection/support====
−
Best role armament selection: Sidewinder missiles and machine guns
+
Best role armament selection: AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles and machine guns
  
−
An AH-1Z Viper offers a unique set of capabilities compared to any other helicopter on the battlefield! It can be equipped with Sidewinder air to air missiles. The Sidewinder missiles provide great capacity to shoot down up to two enemy aircraft. They can shoot down other rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters) or fixed-wing aircraft (airplanes). The missiles can also be equipped with the additional payloads, such as Hellfire, machine gun and rocket pod configurations, providing a versatile offensive and defensive solution.
+
An AH-1Z Viper offers a unique set of capabilities compared to any other helicopter on the battlefield! It can be equipped with Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. The Sidewinder missiles provide great capacity to shoot down up to two enemy aircraft. They can shoot down other rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters) or fixed-wing aircraft (airplanes). The missiles can also be equipped with the additional payloads, such as Hellfire, machine gun and rocket pod configurations, providing a versatile offensive and defensive solution.
  
−
The AH-1Z can outmaneuver and outperform, many of the rivals in air to air combat. The AH-1Z has a triple rotary M197 cannon with 750 rounds. Combined with a twin 7.62 mm M134 mini-gun, which also has 1500 Rounds per gun. That’s 3000 rounds plus the 750 rounds that’s 3750 Rounds of ammunition! Then the wing-mounted AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles which are installed on both wings.
+
The AH-1Z can outmanoeuvre and outperform many of its rivals in air-to-air combat. The AH-1Z has a triple rotary M197 cannon with 750 rounds. Combined with a twin 7.62 mm M134 minigun, which also has 1,500 rounds per gun. That's a total of 3,750 rounds of ammunition! Not forgetting the wing-mounted AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles.
−
To attack other helicopters with the Sidewinders, come in the from the side or rear – get a lock on and fire one of the Sidewinder missiles! Bang the enemy aircraft explodes.  
 
  
−
To attack using the cannon and mini-guns, line up with the foe, come in fast and slow down – align your angle of attack with the side of the enemy, this will yield the best chance of success since the enemy unit has exposed the largest elements of the air-frame to your firepower. Aim for the critical components such as cockpit, engine, fuel tanks and rear rotor elements.  
+
To attack other helicopters with the Sidewinders, come in the from the side or rear – get a lock on and fire one of the Sidewinder missiles! Bang the enemy aircraft explodes.
  
 +
To attack using the cannon and miniguns, line up with the foe, come in fast and slow down – align your angle of attack with the side of the enemy, this will yield the best chance of success since the enemy unit has exposed the largest elements of the airframe to your firepower. Aim for the critical components such as cockpit, engine, fuel tanks and rear rotor elements.
  
−
===Modules===
+
=== Modules ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Tier
 
! Tier
−
! colspan="2" |Flight performance
+
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
! Survivability
 
! Survivability
−
! colspan="3" |Weaponry
+
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
 
|-
 
|-
 
| I
 
| I
 
| Compressor
 
| Compressor
−
|  
+
|
 
| Flak jacket
 
| Flak jacket
−
| Offensive 20 mm||||MAW
+
| Offensive 20 mm
 +
|
 +
| MAW
 
|-
 
|-
 
| II
 
| II
−
|  
+
|
 
|
 
|
 
| Helicopter frame
 
| Helicopter frame
−
| New 20 mm cannons||AGM-114||
+
| New 20 mm cannons
 +
| AGM-114
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
| III
 
| III
−
| Engine||Replacing helicopter blade
+
| Engine
−
|  
+
| Replacing helicopter blades
−
| Gun pod XM-18||||AIM-9/MAW
+
| NVD
 +
| Gun pod M18A1
 +
|
 +
| AIM-9/MAW
 
|-
 
|-
 
| IV
 
| IV
−
|  
+
|
 
|
 
|
 
| Cover
 
| Cover
−
| New 7 mm MGs||AGM-114 2||
+
| New 7 mm MGs
 +
| AGM-114 2
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
===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:'''
  
Line 160: Line 165:
 
* Weak airframe can be taken down even by roof-mounted MGs from enemy tanks
 
* Weak airframe can be taken down even by roof-mounted MGs from enemy tanks
 
* Making strong banks causes the aircraft to flip rotor down
 
* Making strong banks causes the aircraft to flip rotor down
−
* Very slow, easy target when maneuvering for SPAAs and aircraft
+
* Very slow, easy target when manoeuvring for SPAAs and aircraft
 
* Priority target for the enemy team as you are extremely dangerous
 
* Priority target for the enemy team as you are extremely dangerous
 
* No armour whatsoever
 
* No armour whatsoever
Line 166: Line 171:
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
In 1996, the USMC launched the H-1 program in cooperation with the Bell company. The H-1 program was a plan to upgrade and modernize the Navy’s existing fleets of AH-1 and UH-1 helicopters, in order to extend their service life and lower future operating costs. This was achieved by developing a new version of each helicopter model respectively. The new AH-1Z Viper, also known as “ZuluCobra”, received upgraded avionics, fire control systems, engines and an improved four-blade rotor system, among other improvements. Furthermore, both the new Viper and UH-1Y were designed in a way to use mostly identical parts, achieving the desired reduction in operating costs and ease of maintenance as a result. The AH-1Z Viper conducted its maiden flight in December 2000, with three prototypes being built for testing in 2002. Small-scale production began in 2003 before the Viper was approved for full-scale production in November 2010. The USMC has ordered for 189 Vipers to be delivered to the fleet by 2021, with only a few dozen machines being in service today.
+
In 1996, the USMC launched the H-1 program in cooperation with the Bell company. The H-1 program was a plan to upgrade and modernize the Navy's existing fleets of AH-1 and UH-1 helicopters, in order to extend their service life and lower future operating costs. This was achieved by developing a new version of each helicopter model respectively. The new AH-1Z Viper, also known as "ZuluCobra", received upgraded avionics, fire control systems, engines and an improved four-blade rotor system, among other improvements. Furthermore, both the new Viper and UH-1Y were designed in a way to use mostly identical parts, achieving the desired reduction in operating costs and ease of maintenance as a result. The AH-1Z Viper conducted its maiden flight in December 2000, with three prototypes being built for testing in 2002. Small-scale production began in 2003 before the Viper was approved for full-scale production in November 2010. The USMC has ordered for 189 Vipers to be delivered to the fleet by 2021, with only a few dozen machines being in service today.
  
−
''- From [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5756-development-ah-1z-viper-a-lasting-legacy-en Devblog]''
+
''- From [[wt:en/news/5756-development-ah-1z-viper-a-lasting-legacy-en|Devblog]]''
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 
;Images
 
;Images
−
<div><ul>
+
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200px">
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper001.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper001.jpg
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper002.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper002.jpg
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper003.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper003.jpg
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper004.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper004.jpg
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper005.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper005.jpg
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper006.jpg|thumb|none|250px|]] </li>
+
File:AH-1Z WTWallpaper006.jpg
−
</ul></div>
+
</gallery>
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
Line 187: Line 192:
  
 
== 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
 
;Related development
 
* Bell [[AH-1 (Family)|AH-1]] SuperCobra
 
* Bell [[AH-1 (Family)|AH-1]] SuperCobra
Line 198: Line 203:
  
 
== 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;''
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the helicopter;''
−
* ''other literature.''-->
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
−
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5756-development-ah-1z-viper-a-lasting-legacy-en [Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> AH-1Z Viper - A Lasting Legacy]
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* [[wt:en/news/5756-development-ah-1z-viper-a-lasting-legacy-en|[Devblog] AH-1Z Viper - A Lasting Legacy]]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 
{{USA helicopters}}
 
{{USA helicopters}}
 
[[Category:Countermeasures]]
 
[[Category:Countermeasures]]

Revision as of 18:55, 15 July 2020

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
AH-1Z
ah_1z.png
AH-1Z
USA flag.png USA
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.3 12.0 10.0
Class:
Research:400 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:1 020 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game
This page is about the American attack helicopter AH-1Z. For other variants, see AH-1 (Family).

Description

GarageImage AH-1Z.jpg


The AH-1Z is a rank VII American attack helicopter with a battle rating of 10.3 (AB), 12.0 (RB), and 10.0 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.81 "The Valkyries".

General info

Flight performance

Describe how the helicopter behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 1,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres)
AB RB
Stock 382 366 6,000
Upgraded 426 411

Survivability and armour

  • 12 mm steel - engine
  • 20 mm composite boron-carbide - pilot/gunner seats
  • 12 mm steel - pilot seat

When fighting the AH-1Z, it is always a good bet to get the "High Ground" or altitude advantage of this vehicle. Try to strafe it and get around to its blinds spot, as it can't use the tail rotor effectively when moving, and will yaw and flip when making a strong attempt to turn-on-target. Always aim for the cockpit, as one the gunner is knocked out the turret becomes unusable. When coming up against a Zulu with gun pods or secondary weapons (especially the lethal AIM-9L), know that the pilot can still fire these even if the gunner is knocked out. However, it is unlikely that a Zulu will take a gun pod over a full missile rack.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main articles: M197 (20 mm), AIM-9L Sidewinder

The AH-1Z is armed with:

  • A choice between three presets:
    • 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg)
    • 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg) + 120 x Flares
    • 1 x 20 mm M197 cannon (750 rpg) + 120 x Flares + 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles

Suspended armament

Main articles: AGM-114B Hellfire, Hydra-70 M247, M134 Minigun (7.62 mm)

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

  • Without load
  • 76 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
  • 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
  • 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets + 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
  • 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles
  • 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles + 2 x 7.62 mm M134 Minigun machine guns (1,500 rpg = 3,000 total)
  • 8 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles + 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
  • 16 x AGM-114B Hellfire missiles

Usage in battles

Using the AH-1Z Viper after the AH-1F requires learning time, the playstyle between this and the AH-1F has some unique differences such as ammunition, views and overall playstyle.

The AH-1Z is an attack helicopter, it does this role very well, in fact, it is one of the best attack helicopters in the game, with speed up to 411 km/h (255 mph). The AH-1Z offers a large array of ordnance selections, from miniguns and rockets, to Hellfire missiles. In addition, the AH-1Z can carry a combination of missiles, rockets or miniguns together. To optimise your loadout, pick a role to specialise, air protection or ground attack, though this attack helicopter can do it all.

To utilise the AH-1Z viper, make sure to adjust the tactics to the map, for example, on maps with rocks and hilly terrain, stay low and use cover whilst you get to into a position which will allow you to dominate the battlefield. For maps which are open and flat, climb to a high altitude and assess the situation, just make sure to scan the map and not get fixated on a location.

The AH-1Z has three main playstyles, the playstyles of this attack helicopter are focused around dominating in the following roles: medium & close range, long range, and air protection/support.

However, the AH-1Z does have one drawback, due to the increase in size changes to the centre of gravity in high pitch and tight turns, it is possible to lose control. It is advisable to always counteract by keeping the nose of the helicopter level or to lessen the turn radius. If required to do one, such as evading surface to air missiles, make sure that there is enough room to recover the helicopter in – ideally at least 1,000 feet and make sure to increase the pitch of the blades to a 100% to adjust for yawing.

Close/medium range

The AH-1Z offers a combination of wing-mounted ordnance and ordnance packages which are available from Rocket pods, Machine guns, Hellfire missiles.

In an nonupgraded configuration it can carry up to 76 x Hydra-70 rockets or two pods with machine guns, but taking them to the battle will reduce the amount of Hydras to 38. Using these weapons will force you to get close to the ground units and make the helicopter vulnerable to turret-mounted anti-air weapons or SPAAGs, so it is recommended to stay at very low altitude and use the high level speed to evade fire.

Hydra rockets are not as reliable as long range AGMs, their accuracy is not great and in most cases even if the player manages to get close to the battlefield it will be able to destroy only a few units or disable their weapons and other components.

Long range - Hellfire missiles

To utilise the long-range performance of the AH-1Z, hover outside of the combat zone. It is important that you check and make sure that there are no threats in the vicinity which could shoot you down. Once the combat zone has been declared safe from vehicles which could destroy you. Increase altitude, until you have a good visual on the objectives. Hover the helicopter, change the view to the gun camera and locate a target ground vehicle and fire! The Hellfire missiles offer up to 1,100 mm of penetration with a speed of 475 meters per second.

Firing the Hellfire missiles, you will notice that you cannot see them. This is normal, you need to keep the laser designator on the target. On the HUD, left-hand side, you will see a countdown, it takes 10 seconds for the missile to hit the target. When the Hellfire gets close to the target you will see the rocket, this where you can adjust the missile trajectory.

It is very important that after a few Hellfire missile launches that, you disengage the hover and relocate to another part of the battle zone. Performing this action will substantially reduce the chances of being shot down by enemy vehicles.

One of the drawbacks of the Hellfire missiles is, at very close range they cannot engage a target, due to how the Hellfires are launched from the wing racks. The Hellfire missile drops from the wing rack then engages the rocket motor and immediately ascend in height, making it impossible to track from launch.

Msg-info.png The Hellfire missiles require time to adapt to, however once learnt they become one of the most potent missiles in the game.

Air protection/support

Best role armament selection: AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles and machine guns

An AH-1Z Viper offers a unique set of capabilities compared to any other helicopter on the battlefield! It can be equipped with Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. The Sidewinder missiles provide great capacity to shoot down up to two enemy aircraft. They can shoot down other rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters) or fixed-wing aircraft (airplanes). The missiles can also be equipped with the additional payloads, such as Hellfire, machine gun and rocket pod configurations, providing a versatile offensive and defensive solution.

The AH-1Z can outmanoeuvre and outperform many of its rivals in air-to-air combat. The AH-1Z has a triple rotary M197 cannon with 750 rounds. Combined with a twin 7.62 mm M134 minigun, which also has 1,500 rounds per gun. That's a total of 3,750 rounds of ammunition! Not forgetting the wing-mounted AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles.

To attack other helicopters with the Sidewinders, come in the from the side or rear – get a lock on and fire one of the Sidewinder missiles! Bang the enemy aircraft explodes.

To attack using the cannon and miniguns, line up with the foe, come in fast and slow down – align your angle of attack with the side of the enemy, this will yield the best chance of success since the enemy unit has exposed the largest elements of the airframe to your firepower. Aim for the critical components such as cockpit, engine, fuel tanks and rear rotor elements.

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Compressor Flak jacket Offensive 20 mm MAW
II Helicopter frame New 20 mm cannons AGM-114
III Engine Replacing helicopter blades NVD Gun pod M18A1 AIM-9/MAW
IV Cover New 7 mm MGs AGM-114 2

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Can carry up to 16 Hellfire AGMs
  • Flares
  • One of the fastest helicopters in the game
  • Can carry air-to-air missiles to take down aircraft
  • Excellent ground attack capabilities

Cons:

  • Weak airframe can be taken down even by roof-mounted MGs from enemy tanks
  • Making strong banks causes the aircraft to flip rotor down
  • Very slow, easy target when manoeuvring for SPAAs and aircraft
  • Priority target for the enemy team as you are extremely dangerous
  • No armour whatsoever
  • Lacks passive IRCM compared to its predecessor

History

In 1996, the USMC launched the H-1 program in cooperation with the Bell company. The H-1 program was a plan to upgrade and modernize the Navy's existing fleets of AH-1 and UH-1 helicopters, in order to extend their service life and lower future operating costs. This was achieved by developing a new version of each helicopter model respectively. The new AH-1Z Viper, also known as "ZuluCobra", received upgraded avionics, fire control systems, engines and an improved four-blade rotor system, among other improvements. Furthermore, both the new Viper and UH-1Y were designed in a way to use mostly identical parts, achieving the desired reduction in operating costs and ease of maintenance as a result. The AH-1Z Viper conducted its maiden flight in December 2000, with three prototypes being built for testing in 2002. Small-scale production began in 2003 before the Viper was approved for full-scale production in November 2010. The USMC has ordered for 189 Vipers to be delivered to the fleet by 2021, with only a few dozen machines being in service today.

- From Devblog

Media

Images
  • AH-1Z WTWallpaper001.jpg
  • AH-1Z WTWallpaper002.jpg
  • AH-1Z WTWallpaper003.jpg
  • AH-1Z WTWallpaper004.jpg
  • AH-1Z WTWallpaper005.jpg
  • AH-1Z WTWallpaper006.jpg
Videos
AH-1Z vs Mi-35M - War Thunder Official Channel
The Shooting Range #143 - Metal Beasts section at 06:30 discusses the AH-1Z.

See also

Related development
  • Bell AH-1 SuperCobra
  • Bell UH-1 Iroquois
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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