Boeing CH-47 Chinook
(Eng. Boeing CH-47 Chinook) - American heavy military transport helicopter of the longitudinal scheme. Replaced the US Army CH-54 helicopter and has been in widespread use since the early 1960s. It was exported to 16 countries of the world. In addition to the United States, it has been produced since 1970 in Italy (more than 200 helicopters) and in Japan (54 helicopters have been produced by Kawasaki).
History of creation
Most important property modern army, along with combat power, is considered its mobility. And if on a global scale the transfer of troops is provided by a transport aircraft, then directly on the battlefield it is impossible without helicopters. The US Army for the first time formulated its requirements for a transport helicopter in 1956 in the "Requirements for the SS 471L weapon system. The two most powerful American helicopter companies immediately joined the struggle for a lucrative contract, which, by the way, had pronounced Slavic roots in their names: " Pyasetsky Helicopter Corporation and Sikorsky Aircraft. Frank Pyasetsky won with his project of a twin-rotor helicopter of the longitudinal scheme, the prototype of the Chinook. In August 1907, the helicopter of the French designer Cornu had two 6-meter propellers, nose and tail, rotating in opposite directions.However, at the same time it was forgotten for a long time: in the absence of powerful motors and light structural materials, it seemed too wasteful to rotate two propellers... "Renaissance" began in 1945, when Piasetsky created his "Flying Banana" (which became the second, after Sikorsky's R-4, serially produced helicopter in the USA). It was followed by the H-21 "Workhorse", the H-25 "Army Mule", the H-16 "Transporter" and others. left the company and until the 80s led a small pilot plant that worked for the Boeing Corporation, the name ("Pyasetsky Erkraft", "Vertol Erkraft", "Boeing Vertol", "Boeing"), the basic enterprise, remaining faithful to only one - all the machines built by her were twin-rotor helicopters of the longitudinal scheme.
The first "tandems" were widely used in the army and navy, in peacetime and in the Korean conflict, and were highly appreciated everywhere. As it turned out, they had serious advantages: they were stable, insensitive to the movement of the center of mass, they made it possible to use almost the entire fuselage for cargo placement (for which they received the name "flying car"), they realized the power of the power plant more efficiently. Shortcomings were also revealed, both constructive (complex and heavy transmissions for transmitting torque, the presence of two gearboxes, two propellers), and aerodynamic (hindrance to the rear propeller during forward flight), and operational (high labor intensity of maintenance). Yes, and they cost more ... The first attempt to satisfy the "SS 471L requirements" was the V-107 project, work on which began in May 1957. Since it was created at the expense of own funds"Vertol Erkraft" (as the company began to be called since 1957), in order to save money, it was decided to be based as much as possible on the technical solutions of the previous H-21 apparatus. The most radical difference is the use of turboshaft (according to earlier terminology - turboprop or gas turbine) engines (TVD) instead of piston ones. It has become feature helicopters of the "second generation", which made it possible to make the same qualitative leap in flight performance, as well as the appearance of a turbojet engine on aircraft.
On April 22, 1958, the V-107 made its first flight, and soon the army ordered a series of 10 machines under the designation YHC-1A to gain experience in operating the theater. But even before the construction of the first of them, the military decided that they needed something more powerful. From the whole complex of requirements, the main thing crystallized out: the new machine must have a combat radius of 115 miles (185 km) when flying at an altitude of 6,000 feet (1830 m), i.e. outside the action of infantry air defense systems. The slightly enlarged three-engine version was also rejected and involuntarily we had to concentrate on a new project that received the "internal" V-114 index, and even hurry, because. Sikorsky, with his single-rotor projects, "breathed down the back of his head." Nevertheless, "Vertol" hit, if not in the "top ten", then in the "nine" for sure - the V-107 accepted the fleet as the base model for the development of a transport helicopter, which from 1962 went into mass production under the name CH-46 "Sea Knight" - "Sea Knight".
The V-114 was completed on April 28, 1961. He received the "army" index YHC-1B, and the company - money (assigning an index and a serial number meant the purchase of a vehicle by the army with automatic payment of the cost) and an order for the first 5 production vehicles, called HC-1B (serial numbers from 59-4982 to 59 -4986 (the first two digits are the financial year, which does not coincide with the calendar year for several months, the last four are the serial number) The second copy of the helicopter made its first flight on September 21, 1961. And a year later, according to the new system indexing, unified for all types aircraft, the experimental versions were renamed YCH-47A, and the serial ones were renamed CH-47A (CH - Cargo Helicopter, cargo helicopter, 47 - serial number of the model, "A" - the first option; the prefix "Y" indicated the prototype). The Chinook received its so-called "popular name" in accordance with the tradition of assigning the names of North American Indian tribes to army helicopters.
The CH-47A was the first American second-generation theater helicopter to enter service. "Medium all-weather transport helicopter that meets the requirements of SS 471L" in its original version was able to transport up to 2.8 tons of cargo over a distance of 115 miles at an altitude of 6000 feet and return to base without refueling, lifted a maximum load of over 6 tons and transferred it to 23 miles (37 km). The power plant consisted of two Avco Lycoming T-55L-5 TVDs with a capacity of 1648 kW - 2200 hp. (on later copies - T-55L-7 of 2650 hp) located on the sides of the rear fuselage. The spacious cargo compartment measuring 9.2x2.29x1.98 m (length x average width x height) was quickly loaded through a folding tail ramp, and longer items could be transported with an open ramp. For oversized cargo, an external suspension hook was provided that could withstand a weight of up to 9 tons. The influxes on both sides contained fuel tanks, and the lower part of the fuselage, completely sealed along the entire length, provided buoyancy and, accordingly, the possibility of takeoff and landing from the water surface. The helicopter was capable of carrying up to 33 soldiers (on folding seats along the sides) or up to 24 wounded plus two paramedics. For entry, the door in the right front was usually used. The winch located above it made it possible to lift 20 soldiers with weapons on board a helicopter hanging at a height of 30 m in 4 minutes. The first production CH-47A was officially accepted by the US Army on August 16, 1962.
Design
Helicopter of a twin-rotor longitudinal scheme with two gas turbine engines and a four-wheel landing gear.
The fuselage is all-metal, semi-monocoque design, with a rectangular section with rounded corners; has a two-seat crew cabin, on each side of which there are resettable emergency doors, and a cargo compartment with a volume of 41.7m3, in which 44 seats (33 main and 11 additional, along the central aisle) are installed, the rear part with a cargo hatch, the hinged sash of which forms a loading ramp , equipped with three folding sections, and compartments of the rotor pylons. The cargo cabin with dimensions of 9.19 x 2.29 x 1.98m and a floor area of 21m2 has a large sliding door on the right side with a size of 1.68 x 0.9m and additionally emergency escape hatches. The cargo compartment and the cockpit are connected by a passage. In the sanitary variant, 24 wounded on stretchers and 2 accompanying medics can be accommodated in the cabin; in the passenger variant, seats are installed for 44 passengers, 4 in a row with the central aisle. For the transportation of goods on an external sling, under the fuselage there is a central cargo hook, designed for a force of 11970kg, and front and rear cargo hooks for 7140kg each.
The rotors are three-bladed, with hinged blades, rotating in opposite directions. The blades are rectangular in plan with an area of 7.43 m2 each and a chord of 0.81 m. The D-shaped blade spar is made of epoxy-based fiberglass, with a forging of the toe of titanium and nickel alloys, the tail compartments are also made of fiberglass with nomex filler. Counterweights are installed in the tip of the blade, replaceable tungsten counterweights are also installed in the spar - to adjust the taper. The blades have an improved aerodynamic profile VR-7 (and on the front part, where the flow velocity is achieved, corresponding to the number M = 0.85 - profile VR-8) and a linear twist of -12╟. Installation of an anti-icing system on the blades is provided. The peripheral speed of the ends of the blades is 215m/s.
Power point. The engines are installed on each side of the rear rotor pylon, have axial air intakes covered with a mesh screen. Auxiliary power unit Solar T-62T-2V with a capacity of 71 kW is used to drive auxiliary units, and on the ground it ensures the operation of the electrical system, hydraulic boosters of the control system, chassis, hydraulic pumps and other units.
The transmission consists of a central gearbox, main rotor gearboxes, motor gearboxes and connecting shafts. The gear ratio from the engine to the rotors is 1:67.
The cooling and lubrication systems of the gearboxes have been improved: cooling air is supplied from an air intake located in the bow of the rear pylon. The oil system is duplicated. The transmission is designed for maximum power 5590kW and for 330 min without oil. Oil tank capacity 14l.
The fuel system includes six self-sealing, pressurized fuel tanks (three each in the side fairings) with a total capacity of 3900l. It is possible to install in the cargo compartment three additional fuel tanks of 3025 liters each.
Non-retractable chassis, four-bearing, with oil-pneumatic shock absorbers. The front supports have twin wheels. The wheels of the rear supports are self-guiding, steerable. All wheels have pneumatics with a pressure of 0.45MPa and hydraulic disc brakes. Installation on wheels of removable skis is provided. Chassis base 6.86m, track 3.2m.
Booster control system, improved, by the company "Hanuell", which ensures the maintenance of the position and speed of the helicopter flight, as well as the choice and maintenance of the course and flight altitude; includes hydraulic boosters and a stabilization system.
The hydraulic system of a modular design ensures the operation of the hydraulic boosters of the control system, the braking system of the landing gear and the main rotor. Pressure in hydraulic system control is 20MPa, the flow rate of the mixture is 53l / min, there is a spherical tank with a capacity of 5.32l with a pressure of 0.17MPa. In hydraulic system general purpose the pressure is 23MPa, the flow rate of the mixture is 51.5L/min, there is a piston hydraulic reservoir with a volume of about 7L and a pressure of 0.39MPa.
The electrical system consists of two autonomous circuits powered by two air-cooled alternators (40 kVA) driven by a central gearbox.
Radio-electronic equipment is standard, includes a VHF radio station ARS-164 of the decimeter range with AM; SPU S-6533; identification system "friend or foe" Bendix АРХ-100, omnidirectional VHF beacon ARM-123, radio altimeter ARN-209, radio compass ARN-89B; standard flight instruments include the AQV-6A horizontal position indicator.
Modifications
Military modifications
- CH-47A: basic transport helicopter.
- ACH-47A
- CH-47V
- CH-47S: modification with new engines.
- CH-47D
- NS.Mk.1 And Mk.1B: variants for the RAF.
- S/MN-47E: multi-purpose variant with increased range and in-flight refueling, armament and new equipment.
- CH-47F
- MH-47G
- CH-47J: Variant for the Japanese Armed Forces.
- HH-47
- MH-47D
Civil modifications
Model 234LR (Long Range)
Model 234ER (Extended Range)
Model MLR (Multi Purpose Long Range)
Model 234UT (Utility Transport)
Model 414
Combat use
One of the first Chinooks was equipped with the 1st Airmobile Cavalry Division (AKD), formed in July 1965. Distinctive feature This connection of a completely new type, the fruit of the "rapid response" doctrine, was its exceptional maneuverability, achieved by maximum lightening of weapons (while maintaining firepower) and a multiple increase in the number of helicopters in it. 428 of its full-time rotorcraft transported a third of the personnel with weapons in one flight, simultaneously performing the role of "air artillery". Chinooks were equipped with a battalion of transport helicopters, which consisted of a headquarters, a headquarters company and three companies of transport helicopters (16 CH-47A each).
The airmobile division was intended mainly for anti-partisan operations and therefore "thundered" in Vietnam a month after its formation, in September 1965. "Chinooks" arrived by sea on the deck of the aircraft carrier "Boxer", and soon became indispensable vehicle in the conditions of the South Vietnamese jungle, mountains and swamps. The nature of their use was reminiscent of the behavior of a housewife before the next rise in price, when you need to be in time everywhere and take the maximum weight everywhere (one of the loading options was formulated as follows: 33 American or ... 50 Vietnamese soldiers, and during the evacuation of refugees, a record was once recorded - 147 people per one flight!). The similarity was strengthened by powerful "string bags": most of the cargo was transported on an external sling. Although the "flying wagons" tried to stay away from the battlefield, specializing in the transfer of cargo to troops from supply bases, they had to be armed with three 7.62-mm M60 machine guns for self-defense.
More exotic applications are also known: as "bombers", smoke curtains, tear gas dispensers, artillery "tractors". Quite effectively, they participated in the Piperomoke operations - raids to evacuate damaged aircraft from the battlefield. Here, the Chinooks, with their powerful external suspension and carrying capacity, turned out to be almost indispensable! In the first year of hostilities alone, they evacuated 100 planes and helicopters that made emergency landings, and in total, during the Vietnam War, they evacuated more than a thousand vehicles worth about $ 3 billion!
In total, 550 Chinooks went through the conflict in Southeast Asia (out of a total of 684 built). They made 2.6 million helicopter sorties with a flight time of 1182 thousand hours, of which 996 thousand hours in combat conditions, transported about 8.5 million people and 4.5 million tons of cargo. 170 vehicles became victims of the war (of which 136 were from the US Army). Vietnam also showed the high reliability of the CH-47 - 5.3 accidents per 100,000 flight hours. The lowest rate among army aircraft and helicopters.
| LTH: |
| Modification | CH-47E |
| Main propeller diameter, m | 18.59 |
| Tail rotor diameter, m | 18.59 |
| Length, m | 15.54 |
| Height, m | 5.77 |
| Weight, kg | |
| empty | 10151 |
| maximum takeoff | 22680 |
| Internal fuel, l | 3899 |
| engine's type | 2 GTD Textron Lycoming T55-L-712 (-712SSB) |
| power, kWt | |
| during takeoff | 2 x 2796 (3264) |
| in flight | 2 x 2237 (2339) |
| Max speed, km/h | 298 |
| Cruise speed, km/h | 256 |
| Practical range, km | 2026 |
| Range, km | 370 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 669 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 6735 |
| Static ceiling, m | 3215 |
| Crew, people | 2-3 |
|
55 soldiers or 24 stretchers and 2 escorts or 8164 kn of cargo in the cabin or 10341 kg on the suspension 1 or 2 7.62mm M60D machine guns |
President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko on Sunday, August 20, controlled the course of the harvesting campaign. Heads of state don't usually use helicopters as a means of monitoring their harvest, but world leaders take to the air in helicopters frequently. TUT.BY found out which ones.
Belarus
As we managed to find out, there are at least three helicopters in the Belarusian government fleet.
The first helicopter of Alexander Lukashenko was the Mi-8 with tail number EW-25049.
Mi-8, tail number EW-25049. Photo: Sergey Konkov, russianplanes.net
The president also uses a modified Mi-8 helicopter with tail number EW-001DA.
The president also has a Mi-172 helicopter with tail number EW-002DA. A few years ago, he came to the attention of journalists at the Kazan Helicopter Plant during repairs. According to experts, the helicopter was manufactured at Kazan Helicopter Plant on special order. The cost of the helicopter was not announced, but 20 years ago the cost of a Mi-172 helicopter for a VIP was about $4 million.
On which helicopter the President of Belarus controlled the course of the harvest, it is difficult to say from the photo taken in the cabin, but, most likely, on the Mi-172, it is this helicopter that Alexander Lukashenko uses more often than others.
Russia
But in Russia, 9 (!) Helicopters are used to transport Vladimir Putin. All of them are Mi-8s, made to special order, and the cost of each of them is estimated at $8.2 million.
Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev prefers helicopters from the Italian manufacturer Leonardo Helicopters (formerly Agusta Westland), or rather, a modification for VIPs AW139 worth about 15 million euros.
At will, the interior of the salon is developed taking into account the individual preferences of the customer.
USA
The President of the United States can compete with the President of Russia in the number of helicopters. Donald Trump can be carried by any of the 23 HMX-1 Nighthawks, but usually a relatively large VH-3D or a more modern VH-60N.
VH-3D is a modification of the famous Sikorsky S-61 Sea King helicopter, VH-60N is a modification of the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk. It should be noted that 12 helicopters of the presidential squadron Sikorsky VH-3D were produced in the 70s of the last century, and 8 Sikorsky VH-60N - in the 80s of the last century.
Judging by the pictures news agencies and the White House press office, Donald Trump prefers VH-3D helicopters and does not like to be photographed on board. But you can see what helicopters look like from the inside thanks to former US President Barack Obama.
It is planned that in 2020 these helicopters will replace the VH-92A manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft. A prototype of the new US presidential helicopter is already being tested, according to Lockheed Martin. Among the changes being introduced to the presidential board being tested are the integration of special systems and the installation of an exclusive interior.
Great Britain
In addition to the American White House, Sikorsky has traditionally served the fleet of the English Queen since the 1950s. The VIP S-76C++ model, which Elizaveta has been flying since 2009, is the VIP configuration of the civil Sikorsky S-76 helicopter. The approximate cost of the "royal" modification is 7.9 million dollars.
Germany
In a special unit air force Bundeswehr, which provides transportation statesmen Germany, there are three AS532 Cougar Airbus helicopters. Angela Merkel flies a modified AS 332 Super Puma worth about 15 million euros.
In March 2011, Merkel's helicopter nearly crashed due to engine failure. The pilots regained control of the aircraft when about a hundred meters remained before the collision with the ground. The Chancellor was not on board the helicopter at the time.
And in 2016, the German Ministry of Defense notified the Chancellor that she could not yet fly AS532 Cougar Airbus helicopters. This decision was made at the time of the investigation of a plane crash with a similar helicopter in Norway, which killed 13 people.
At the end of 2016, Merkel's helicopter was redesigned. He received not only a new color, but also specially made carpets, curtains and covers.
A helicopter carrying German Chancellor Angela Merkel arrives at the German Meseberg guest house ahead of Merkel's meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Meseberg, Germany May 29, 2017. Photo: Reuters “The main problem was the lack of time. We used the helicopter almost all the time, so we had very short periods of time - 6-7 hours during downtime, ”said Roger Hohl, member of the board of ACM Aerospace, a company that modernizes air transport, about the difficulties with the helicopter of the German Chancellor.
France
The French government fleet has three AS 332 Super Puma helicopters.
One of the French "Super Pumas". It shows French President Emmanuel Macron arriving at military base in Crozon. July 4, 2017. Photo: Reuters 
Want to take a closer look at one of the AS 332s? Please. True, the former President of France, Francois Hollande, is visible through the window. January 14, 2015. Photo: Reuters But just flying government helicopters is boring for the young French president.
In addition to the inspection of "hot spots", Emmanuel Macron is no stranger to other risky adventures. On July 4, the President of France spectacularly descended into a submarine - directly from the presidential helicopter.
Helicopters received their development only in the second half of the 20th century. They were practically not used in World War II. However, in combat vehicles they showed themselves from the very better side. be the first to develop such military equipment Americans became, and at first they didn’t even have competitors. Currently, aircraft are used for reconnaissance purposes, for adjusting fire, for evacuating the wounded, for disembarking soldiers, etc. And in this review, some American military helicopters should be highlighted.
Fighting vehicle with enhanced armor protection
The design of the AN-1 was designed according to a single-rotor scheme. Almost all combat vehicles of this type have a two-blade main and tail rotor. An exception is the AN-1W model. It should also be noted that they have a non-retractable ski-type landing gear in their design. This series is characterized by a narrow fuselage. The cockpit can accommodate two crew members. They will sit next to each other. American military helicopters of this series are characterized by enhanced armor protection, as well as a duplicated control system. There is no cargo hold. For a significant increase in speed with maneuverability, the designers installed a relatively small mid-wing.
Armament and the main differences between these models
American military helicopters of this series are equipped with a turret gun mount, which is located in the forward fuselage. There are also four pylons under the wing, which can be equipped with removable weapons. In order to reduce the likelihood of hitting missiles with an IR homing head, the designers equipped the car with an engine exhaust cooling system. Reinforced blades can withstand 23mm rounds.
What is the difference between the AN-1 series and other models? They consist in various power plants, weapons and on-board equipment. Fighting vehicles of this series are capable of hovering at an altitude of 915 meters with a full supply of fuel, as well as with a ton of weapons at a temperature of 35 degrees.
Transport military helicopter
The American military helicopter "Chinook" (CH-47) first took to the air in 1961. A year later it was renamed CH-47A. At the very beginning, it was equipped with two engines, the power of which reached 1641 kW. Subsequently, it was decided to replace them with more powerful units. The all-metal fuselage is characterized by a rectangular section and rounded corners. Fairings can be found on each side of the lower fuselage. They hide the fuel tanks, three each. The amphibious American military helicopter, whose name is Chinook, can accommodate 44 paratroopers. There are knots with the possibility of fixing a stretcher for the wounded in the amount of 24 pieces. Due to the tilted sash, characteristic of the cargo hatch, it is possible to form a loading ramp.
The blades are fastened using hinges. In order to reduce abrasive wear, it was decided to cover the tip of the blade with titanium and nickel alloys.
The famous Apache helicopter
The American military helicopter "Apache" (AN-64) was developed in order to provide soldiers with fire support. It is also necessary for the destruction of armored objects. The combat vehicle can make sorties regardless of the time of day, visibility conditions and weather conditions. In order to reduce the likelihood of missiles with IR homing heads hitting the car, the exhaust of the power unit is produced through a device that disperses the jet, while reducing its temperature. The American military helicopter, whose name is "Apache", is equipped with a Hellfire ATGM, which is characterized by the presence of laser guidance. On the turret, located under the fuselage, there is a 30 mm cannon.
The blades of the carrier wine are characterized by a rectangular shape and an arrow-shaped tip. Due to this, it was possible to reduce the effect of compressibility when reaching high flight speeds. The blades are fastened by systems of elastic torsion plates. They are able to maintain their performance in the event of hit by bullets, the caliber of which reaches 15.7 mm. What other American military helicopters should be highlighted?
Reconnaissance combat helicopter
The Comanche helicopter (RAH-66) is a modern twin-engine reconnaissance combat vehicle. It is also capable of supporting ground forces with fire. The fuselage, which has a US military helicopter with two propellers, is characterized by a low effective reflection area. The combat vehicle has removable weapon pylons, electronic system flight controls and an ergonomic cockpit. The helicopter is equipped with a five-blade main rotor. The tail screw is in the ring. Combat models of this series have IR sensors and telescopic television cameras. They provide the opportunity to make night flights, as well as with high precision identify targets. The armament of the helicopter is the Hellfire ATGM with laser guidance. There is also an air-to-air Stinger missile, flares and a 20 mm cannon.
Twin-rotor military helicopter
An American military helicopter with two propellers, whose name is Kiowa Warrior, began to be designed back in 1984. Some models were subsequently modified into light special-purpose vehicles. With their help, the wounded, soldiers and cargo were transported, which were secured by using an external suspension. The design has a four-blade main and two-blade tail rotor. Through the use of a new carrier system, it was possible to increase the time spent in flight up to 2.5 hours. At the same time, the helicopter is able to move not only in a straight line, but also sideways and backwards. It can also hover in the air with a wind speed of 65 km / h.
The helicopter is equipped with protection against bullets, the caliber of which is 7.62 mm. Due to the weakening of the thermal radiation of the motor and the use of an active IR interference station, it was possible to reduce the likelihood of hitting missiles with an IR head. The crew with fuel tanks are protected by armor plates. They can withstand 30mm projectiles. To prevent damage to the rotor blades, they were equipped with a cutting knife. A helicopter of this series can transmit data on targets to a ground point through the use of special systems. This procedure takes about 6 seconds.
Hugh transport helicopters
What is the name of the American military helicopter, most of whose modifications can be transported on C-124 type aircraft? It's about about UH-1 Huey combat vehicles. During the period of their improvement, the designers have improved some of its parameters. The number of seats for passengers was increased, the flight distance was almost 3 times. But the weight of the combat vehicle at the same time became much larger. At first, single-engine models of this series rose into the air, but then it was decided to produce twin-engine ones. Many modifications of this particular series can be transported using C-124 type transport aircraft. Armament is removable. There are special attachment points for it: five built-in and two hinged. On all these nodes, without exception, you can install machine guns with grenade launchers.
Conclusion
In this review, some American helicopters used in reconnaissance and combat operations were considered. In fact, there are a lot of them, and there is not enough time to describe all the models. We have considered only the most famous and popular series. We hope that this article will help to understand what are designed in the United States.
In all military conflicts of recent decades, very important role played helicopters that are used to transport goods, evacuate the wounded and strike at the enemy. It was helicopters that did most of the dirty work in Vietnam, Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf. Attack helicopters, designed for destruction and destruction, stand apart here. Meet the ten best attack helicopters of our time, which are ranked by the best ratio of speed, firepower, maneuverability and electronic stuffing.
10. Mi-24 (USSR)
Mi-24 is one of the world's first specialized attack helicopters designed to support infantry on the battlefield and destroy enemy armored vehicles. He became an alternative to the American AH-1 "Cobra", however, with its own specifics. In addition to powerful weapons and good armor, the Mi-24 can be used as a transport helicopter for transporting up to eight people. This veteran, whose production began in the early 70s of the last century, remains in service to this day, boasts a bunch of modifications and has shown itself well in numerous military conflicts.
9. Z-10 (China)
Z-10 is the first Chinese attack helicopter, which was created with the active participation of the European companies Augusta & Eurocopter. The helicopter is made according to the classic modern scheme with a narrow fuselage, a cockpit in which the pilots sit one after another, and all critical components are hidden behind armor plates. The Z-10 is armed with a 30 mm cannon, HJ-9 or HJ-10 anti-tank missiles, TY-90 air-to-air missiles and unguided. Its main task is to destroy armored vehicles, defensive structures and ensure superiority over the enemy on the battlefield.
8. AH-2 Rooivalk (South Africa)
The South African company Denel Aerospace Systems boasts the creation and production of the AH-2 Rooivalk attack helicopter. The machine is designed to destroy manpower, armored vehicles and enemy fortifications. Although this helicopter was designed from scratch, however, part of the components, including the engine and rotor, were borrowed from the Aerospatiale Puma helicopter. To date, 12 pieces of AH-2 Rooivalk are in service with the South African Air Force.
7. AH-1W Super Cobra (USA)
AH-1W Super Cobra is an American twin-engine attack helicopter based on the single-engine AH-1 Cobra helicopter, which increased its survivability on the battlefield and payload. The helicopter was produced in several modifications AH-1J SeaCobra, AH-1T Improved SeaCobra and AH-1W SuperCobra. AH-1W Super Cobra, the main armament of which was a 20-mm cannon, air-to-ground, air-to-air missiles, plus containers with unguided rockets, bombs or cannons can be fixed on suspensions.
6. A-129/T-129 (Italy/Türkiye)
Agusta A129 Mangusta (this is the official name of this device) became the first attack helicopter developed and put into mass production in Western Europe in the second half of the 80s of the last century by the Italian company Agusta. The helicopter turned out to be very compact, where the use of armor plates is reduced to a minimum, which was compensated by a special layout of units, duplication of important systems and self-tightening tanks / tubes. Traditionally for attack helicopters, the pilots are located in the cockpit one behind the other. In 2007, the Turkish company Turkish Aerospace Industries received a license for its production of helicopters, which released a simplified version of the helicopter under the symbol T-129 (it is impossible to install part of the armament) adopted by the Turkish army. The helicopter is armed with three 20-mm cannons, guided air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles and an unguided missile array.
5. AH-1Z Viper (USA)
AH-1Z Viper is actually further development twin-engine helicopter AH-1W Super Cobra, which has become even more deadly and dangerous, put into service marines USA. It uses a new composite four-bladed main and tail rotor, a new transmission and guidance system that allows you to effectively fight at night and in poor visibility.
4. Mi-28N "Night hunter" (Russia)
The Russian attack helicopter Mi-28N is designed for use at any time of the day and in any weather, designed to replace the honored veteran Mi-24. A 30-mm cannon is installed in the nose of the helicopter, and blocks with unguided missiles, guided air-to-ground missiles to destroy enemy armored vehicles or pillboxes, guided air-to-air missiles or containers with cannons can be mounted on four external suspensions.
3. Eurocopter Tiger (France/Germany)
The Eurocopter Tiger attack helicopter, created by the Franco-German company Eurocopter, has been adopted by Germany, France, Spain and Australia. There are two turboshafts here. gas turbine engines Rolls-Royce MTR390, and the body is almost entirely made of polymer materials reinforced with carbon and Kevlar threads. Crew members are arranged in tandem one behind the other, but at the same time slightly shifted to the side to improve viewing angles. The Eurocopter Tiger is armed with a 30mm cannon, air-to-surface, surface-to-surface and rocket launchers.
2. Kamov Ka-50/Ka-52 (Russia)
Russian, although it is correct to call it Soviet, after all, the USSR created and brought it to mind, the Ka-50 attack helicopter is a truly unique machine. Firstly, it is single, and secondly, it has a double coaxial main rotor without a tail rotor. The helicopter turned out to be very compact, fast and nimble with a range of 250 km and capable of accelerating to 350 km/h. The Ka-50 has a 30mm cannon, and four external hangers can carry air-to-ground and air-to-air guided missiles, rocket launchers, cannon containers or bombs. Ka-52 is a two-seat modification of the helicopter.
1. AH-64D Apache Long Bow (USA)
The AH-64D Apache Long Bow Attack Helicopter is a real tank and armored personnel carrier killer ready to do its dirty work day and night in any weather. He is literally all crammed with electronics, which allows you to strike from afar, while remaining invisible to the enemy. The helicopter is capable of simultaneously carrying 16 AGM-114 Hellfire Missiles air-to-ground missiles, 76 Hydra unguided missiles, and that's not counting 1200 30-mm automatic cannon rounds. The AH-64D Apache especially distinguished itself during military campaigns in the Persian Gulf, becoming a real killer of Iraqi tanks.
Most heads of state and important political figures have changed from conventional transportation to air travel. Now they fly helicopters. Let's see what helicopters they fly and what their price is.
Russian President Vladimir Putin - Mi-8
Crew: 3 people;
Passenger capacity: 28 people (in military version);
Length: 25.31 m;
Height: 5.54 m;
Speed: up to 250 km/h;
Estimated cost: $8.2 million
Mi-8 is a Soviet helicopter developed in the early 60s. It is the most massive twin-engine helicopter in the world, and is also included in the list of the most massive helicopters in the history of aviation. Vladimir Putin flies exclusively on the Mi-8, even after purchasing Italian AgustaWestland helicopters for Russian officials. A helipad was built in the Kremlin specifically for Putin's Mi-8.
The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko also flies the Mi-8.
US President Barack Obama - VH-3D
Crew: 2 pilots and 2 operators;
Passenger capacity: 10 people;
Length: 22.15 m;
Height: 5.13 m;
Speed: up to 267 km/h;
Estimated cost: $6.4 million
This is a modification of the famous Sikorsky S-61 Sea King helicopter, manufactured by the American Sikorsky Aero Engineering Corporation since 1961. The VH-3D is expected to end its service life in 2014.
Helicopters flown by Barack Obama are painted green and white colors and are part of No. 1 Squadron of the US Marine Corps, based in Quantico. This helicopter is better known to the public under the name Marine One - both helicopters of the US President bear this name.
President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych - AgustaWestland AW139
Crew: 1-2 people;
Passenger capacity: up to 15 people;
Length: 16.65 m;
Height: 4.95 m (with tail rotor);
Speed: up to 309 km/h;
Estimated cost: $17 million
Yanukovych has been flying an Italian AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter to Kyiv from his residence in Mezhyhirya since 2010. This is possibly the most expensive helicopter used by heads of state. The cost of the car, according to Yanukovych, is about $6-9 million, but the media had previously reported that the helicopter of the Ukrainian president was equipped for $17 million, excluding interior decoration.
In early March, two such helicopters were purchased for the Russian government aviation squadron. Dmitry Medvedev was the first to test one of them. It is assumed that in the future the helicopters of this company will be assembled in Russia.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel - Super Puma 332
Crew: 2-3 people;
Length: 19.5 m;
Height: 4.97 m;
Speed: up to 315 km/h;
Estimated cost: $15 million
The German chancellor uses a Super Puma 332 helicopter manufactured by Eurocopter. In March 2011, Merkel's helicopter nearly crashed due to engine failure. The pilots regained control of the aircraft when about a hundred meters remained before the collision with the ground. The Chancellor was not on board the helicopter at the time.
Queen Elizabeth II - VIP S-76C++
Crew: 2 people;
Length: 16 m;
Height: 4.42 m;
Speed: up to 287 km/h;
Estimated cost: $7.9 million
In addition to the American White House, Sikorsky has traditionally served the fleet of the English Queen since the 1950s. The model that Elizaveta has been flying since 2009 is the VIP configuration of the civil Sikorsky S-76 helicopter.
President of Argentina Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner - Sikorsky S-70-A-30
Crew: 2 people;
Passenger capacity: 12-13 people;
Length: 16 m;
Height: 4.42 m;
Speed: up to 287 km/h;
Estimated cost: $10 million
Unlike Elizabeth II, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner flies a regular, not a VIP, Sikorsky model. Helicopters of this model have been produced since 1977 and are widely used in the armies of the countries of Northern and South America, China, Japan, Philippines, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and a number of others.
French President Francois Hollande - Super Puma 332
Crew: 2-3 people;
Passenger capacity: 20-24 people;
Length: 19.5 m;
Height: 4.97 m;
Speed: up to 315 km/h;
Estimated cost: $15 million
François Hollande, as well as German Chancellor Angela Merkel, flies on Eurocopter products.
President of India Pranab Mukherjee - AgustaWestland AW101
Crew: 1-2 people;
Passenger capacity: 30 people;
Length: 22.8 m;
Height: 6.62 m;
Speed: up to 309 km/h;
Estimated cost: $21-25 million.
The Government of India in 2009 ordered a batch of 12 helicopters from the Italian AgustaWestland. One of them is flown by President Pranab Mukherjee.
