The 15 Best Attack Helicopters in the World

The 15 Best Attack Helicopters in the World

Attack helicopters are military helicopters designed and equipped to engage in air-to-ground warfare. The primary role of an attack helicopter is to provide close air support to ground troops. Over the years, the design and capabilities of attack helicopters have evolved significantly, reflecting the changing demands of modern warfare. In this article, we will delve into the history of attack helicopters, examine the different types of attack helicopters, discuss the process of naming attack helicopters, and list some of the best attack helicopters from the United States, Russia, Europe, and China.

History of Attack Helicopters

The history of attack helicopters can be traced back to the late 1950s, when military leaders started to recognize the need for a new type of aircraft that could provide quick and effective air support for ground troops. The first generation of attack helicopters, such as the Bell AH-1G Cobra, was developed in the 1960s and 1970s. These early attack helicopters were designed to be fast, maneuverable, and armed with a variety of weapons. They were also equipped with armor plating to protect against enemy fire.

As technology advanced and the demands of modern warfare changed, the design of attack helicopters evolved. The next generation of attack helicopters, such as the AH-64 Apache, incorporated advanced avionics and weapons systems, making them even more effective in battle. These new attack helicopters also had improved engines and transmissions, which allowed them to fly faster and carry heavier weapons. In addition, the introduction of new materials, such as composites, made it possible to build attack helicopters that were lighter and more maneuverable.

The Different Types of Attack Helicopters

There are two main types of attack helicopters: armed reconnaissance helicopters and dedicated attack helicopters. Armed reconnaissance helicopters are designed for reconnaissance missions, but are also equipped with weapons and can engage in air-to-ground attacks if needed. Dedicated attack helicopters, on the other hand, are specifically designed for air-to-ground warfare and are armed with a wide range of weapons, including machine guns, rockets, and missiles.

Naming Attack Helicopters

The process of naming attack helicopters can vary greatly depending on the country and military organization involved. In some cases, attack helicopters are named after animals or mythical creatures, such as the Kamov Ka-50 Black Shark or the Bell AH-1G Cobra. In other cases, attack helicopters are named after historical figures, such as the Cheyenne Attack Helicopter AH-56, which was named after the Cheyenne Native American tribe.

Another common method for naming attack helicopters is to use acronyms or numerical designations. For example, the Boeing AH-64 Apache is named after the Apache Native American tribe, and the AH in the name stands for "Attack Helicopter". Similarly, the Mil Mi-24 Hind is named after the hind, a type of deer, and the Mi in the name stands for "Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant".

Best US Attack Helicopters

The United States has produced some of the world's best attack helicopters. Here are some of the best US attack helicopters:

1)Boeing AH-64 Apache: 

This is one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world and is used by the US military and several other countries. The Apache is equipped with a range of weapons, including Hellfire missiles, Hydra rockets, and a 30mm chain gun.

2)Black Hawk Utility Helicopter UH/HH-60: 

This helicopter is used by the US military for a variety of missions, including air assaults, special operations, and medical evacuations. Although it is not a dedicated attack helicopter, it can be equipped with weapons for self-defense.

3)Cheyenne Attack Helicopter AH-56:

This helicopter was developed in the 1970s but was never put into full production due to technical and budget issues. Despite its limited production, the Cheyenne was considered a highly advanced attack helicopter at the time and featured advanced avionics and weapons systems.

4)Kaman SH-2 Seasprite/H-2 Tomahawk: 

This helicopter was used by the US Navy for a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue. Although it was not a dedicated attack helicopter, it was equipped with weapons and could engage in air-to-ground attacks if needed.

5)Bell H-13 Sioux: 

This helicopter was used by the US military during the Korean War and was also used for training purposes. Although it was not a dedicated attack helicopter, it was equipped with weapons for self-defense.

6)Bell UH-1 Iroquois: 

This helicopter, commonly known as the "Huey", was used by the US military for a variety of missions, including air assaults, medical evacuations, and transport. Although it was not a dedicated attack helicopter, it could be equipped with weapons for self-defense.

7)Bell AH-1G Cobra: 

This was one of the first dedicated attack helicopters and was widely used by the US military during the Vietnam War. The Cobra was equipped with a variety of weapons, including rockets and a machine gun, and was known for its fast and maneuverable design.

8)Bell AH-1 SuperCobra: 

This was an upgraded version of the AH-1G Cobra and was equipped with more advanced weapons and avionics systems. The SuperCobra was widely used by the US military during the Gulf War and other conflicts.

9)Bell AH-1Z Viper: 

This is a modern attack helicopter that is currently used by the US military. The Viper is equipped with a range of advanced weapons and avionics systems and is designed to provide close air support to ground troops.

Best Russian Attack Helicopters

Russia has a long history of producing some of the world's best attack helicopters. Here are some of the best Russian attack helicopters:

10)Kamov Ka-50 Black Shark: 

This is a highly advanced attack helicopter that is equipped with a range of weapons, including anti-tank missiles and a 30mm cannon. The Black Shark is known for its speed, maneuverability, and ability to operate in difficult conditions.

11)Mil Mi-24 Hind: 

This helicopter was widely used by the Soviet military and is still in use by several countries today. The Hind is a dedicated attack helicopter that is equipped with a range of weapons, including missiles, rockets, and a machine gun.

12)Mil Mi-28 Havoc: 

This is a modern attack helicopter that is currently in use by the Russian military. The Havoc is equipped with advanced avionics and weapons systems and is designed to provide close air support to ground troops.

Best European Attack Helicopters

Europe has also produced some of the world's best attack helicopters. Here are some of the best European attack helicopters:

13)Airbus/Eurocopter Tiger (EU): 

This is a highly advanced attack helicopter that is used by several European countries. The Tiger is equipped with a range of weapons, including anti-tank missiles and a 20mm cannon.

14)Agusta/Westland A129 Mangusta (Italy): 

This is a dedicated attack helicopter that is used by the Italian military. The Mangusta is equipped with a range of weapons, including rockets and a machine gun.

Best Chinese Attack Helicopter

China has also made significant investments in developing its own attack helicopters. Here is the best Chinese attack helicopter:

15)CAIC WZ-10 Fierce Thunderbolt: 

This is a modern attack helicopter that is currently used by the Chinese military. The WZ-10 is equipped with advanced avionics and weapons systems, including anti-tank missiles, rockets, and a 30mm cannon. It is designed to provide close air support to ground troops and engage in air-to-air combat if needed.

In conclusion, attack helicopters have played a crucial role in modern warfare and have been developed by various countries around the world. From the early dedicated attack helicopters such as the Bell AH-1G Cobra to the highly advanced attack helicopters of today like the Airbus/Eurocopter Tiger, these helicopters have been designed to provide close air support to ground troops and engage in air-to-air combat. With continued advancements in technology, it is likely that future attack helicopters will be even more advanced and capable of providing critical support to ground troops in the field.