A record-breaking U-2 mission marks 70 years at the edge of space, while we look back at the helicopter medevac that changed battlefield rescue forever.
The differences between AH-1Z Viper or AH-64 Apache...
I'm not much of a Bell guy, and have flown many more hours in the Sikorsky aircraft and happy I did. I know the Apache is a Boeing A/C but thought it was originally built by Igor's team. Anyway, The AH-64 Apache is a heavier, more powerful platform with superior firepower and armor. Important in the battlefield environment. I never could understand why Bell stuck with a 2-bladed rotor system so long as they are much noisier, and lack the smoother ride. The Viper is 50 kts faster and probably more agile, but it is meant for attack type scenario's and has the later rotor system. Flip a coin, either can do medevac operations and the Viper can get you there minutes faster which may be the difference between life and death, I guess. I just don't like Bell even though I have flown 7-8 different models.
Well said James and you have an amazing amount of experience and rotor time. I like the Viper, but perhaps the best testament to the Apache is how it is still winning export contracts for nations like Japan and Poland. Thanks for commenting!
The differences between AH-1Z Viper or AH-64 Apache...
I'm not much of a Bell guy, and have flown many more hours in the Sikorsky aircraft and happy I did. I know the Apache is a Boeing A/C but thought it was originally built by Igor's team. Anyway, The AH-64 Apache is a heavier, more powerful platform with superior firepower and armor. Important in the battlefield environment. I never could understand why Bell stuck with a 2-bladed rotor system so long as they are much noisier, and lack the smoother ride. The Viper is 50 kts faster and probably more agile, but it is meant for attack type scenario's and has the later rotor system. Flip a coin, either can do medevac operations and the Viper can get you there minutes faster which may be the difference between life and death, I guess. I just don't like Bell even though I have flown 7-8 different models.
Well said James and you have an amazing amount of experience and rotor time. I like the Viper, but perhaps the best testament to the Apache is how it is still winning export contracts for nations like Japan and Poland. Thanks for commenting!