When most of us think of attack helicopter, we don't think of the AH-64 Apache, but the Huey Cobra. This small and very capable helicopter got its beginnings in the Vietnam war, where the standard UH-1B/C gunships were just too large a target and were brought down by ground fire more often than the Army would like.

Developed as a private venture based on standard H-1 engines and rotor, the rest of the airframe was slimmed down to the minimum and provided with weapons pylons and a nose turret for guns and grenades.

It proved to be a very capable package and the AH-1G was quickly adopted by the US Army. The Marines wanted one too, but needed a second engine for over-water operations. Thus was built the AH-1J and the Marines have been using Cobras ever since.

Several things have occurred with the Cobra since Vietnam. First, the aircraft became more and more capable, taking on the anti-tank role and being continually upgraded. Secondly, the more sophisticated AH-64 meant that the AH-1 is no longer in the Army inventory. Third, the Marines have been using the AH-1 with great success and in the desert wars, they out performed the AH-64 in all respects, from missions flown to aircraft availability. Finally, the AH-1 is no longer in production so what is lost cannot be replaced, something that concerns the Marines as the aircraft has proven invaluable.

Chris Bishop tells the story of the Huey Cobra and helps us to distinguish between the rather large number of variants. Its war history is also part of this as are the surprising number of foreign operators of the type. This is enhanced by quality photographs, most of them in full color, and the capable illustrations of Jim Laurier. These illustrations include cutaways, profiles, and superb art work such as you see on the cover.

It is a book that is a 'must have' for any helicopter enthusiast and for those who want to know more about this fascinating weapons system.

October 2006

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