They Might Look Familiar, But...

The US Marine Corps has accepted delivery of the first much-modified AH-1Z Cobra and UH-1Y helicopters to enter the Naval Air Systems Command fleet. The two Bell aircraft are part of the Marine's H-1 Upgrade Program, and will now be transferred to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD, to begin Operation Evaluation (OPEVAL) testing and training.

Under the H-1 Program, the US Marine Corps' 180 existing AH-1W SuperCobras are essentially manufactured and transformed into the AH-1Z, while the UH-1Y are completely new aircraft that will phase out existing UH-1N helicopters as the "Y" models are delivered.

Both aircraft share common components, as well as similar flight dynamics. The H-1 upgrades include an 84% commonality between the two aircraft including engines (GE-T700 engines), four-blade all-composite, hingeless, bearingless main rotor system and tail rotor, identical drive trains, hydraulics and electrical distribution systems.

By using common systems the cost of the logistics support process for the two helicopters will be dramatically reduced and will allow for vastly improved shipboard operability, according to a Bell Helicopter press release. By utilizing the same parts, less critical shipboard space will be needed to store spare parts and support equipment to support the two helicopters comprising the H-1 Program.

The shared componentry and operating costs are also expected to save billions of dollars over the life of the program. Increased speed, range, maneuverability and lifting ability of both helicopters were also goals of the H-1 effort.

Under the H-1 Program, 180 essentially new Cobras and 100 totally new UH-1Y copters will be available to the Marines. All aircraft will be considered "zero-time" airframes and will incorporate the latest technology, allowing the helicopters to operate beyond 2020.

FMI: www.marines.mil, www.bellhelicopter.textron.com