Table of Contents
Introduction
Military helicopters play an integral part in the sea, land, and air operations of modern militaries. Their mission is a function of their design or conversion, and these rotary-wing aircraft can be adapted to different roles through the installation of mission-specific equipment. To retain flexibility and limit costs, manufacturers have introduced modular systems which allow the same airframe to be configured for different roles.
Key Equipment and Features
Most military helicopters are armored to some extent, with the most extensive armor placed around the pilots, engines, transmission, and fuel tanks. Other key features include aviation electronics, such as communication radios and navigation aids. Specialized avionics, such as electronic countermeasures and identification friend or foe systems, can also be installed on military helicopters. These systems are often installed either permanently or temporarily, based on specific mission requirements.
Attack Helicopters
Attack helicopters are used in the anti-tank and close air support roles. The first of the modern attack helicopters was the Vietnam era Bell AH-1 Cobra, which pioneered the classic format of pilot and weapons officer seated in tandem in a narrow fuselage, chin-mounted guns, and rockets and missiles mounted on stub wings. Modern attack helicopters are equipped with very capable sensors such as a millimeter wave radar system, enabling them to find and identify their targets.
Transport Helicopters
Transport helicopters are used for transporting personnel and cargo in support of military operations. These helicopters can move personnel and cargo to and from locations without requiring a runway for takeoffs and landings. Cargo is carried either internally, or externally by slung load where the load is suspended from an attachment point underneath the aircraft. Personnel are primarily loaded and unloaded while the helicopter is on the ground. In certain circumstances, however, personnel may also be picked up and dropped off using specialized devices, such as rescue hoists or special rope lines, while the aircraft hovers overhead.
Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Helicopters
These helicopters are specifically designed or modified to carry out medical evacuation missions. They are often equipped with medical equipment and staffed by medical personnel to provide immediate medical care to the injured. The US Army's UH-60 Black Hawk is one example of a helicopter that can be used for MEDEVAC missions.
Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) Helicopters
CSAR helicopters are designed to conduct search and rescue operations in combat zones. They are often equipped with advanced navigation and communication systems to facilitate these missions. The US Air Force's HH-60G Pave Hawk is an example of a CSAR helicopter.
Airborne Command Post Helicopters
These helicopters are equipped to serve as airborne command posts. They contain advanced communication and control systems that allow commanders to coordinate and control forces from the air. The US Army's UH-72 Lakota can be configured as an airborne command post.
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Helicopters
ASW helicopters are designed to detect and engage submarines. They are equipped with sonar systems to detect submarines and can carry torpedoes or other anti-submarine weapons. The US Navy's MH-60R Seahawk is an example of an ASW helicopter.
