Bell AH-1J SeaCobra

Aircraft’s Background

First flown in prototype form on September 7, 1965, and named Huey Cobra, this helicopter was first delivered to the US Army in June, 1967, and within two months the helicopter was being used operationally in Vietnam. The Marines also operated armed Hueys in Vietnam, and their interest in this helicopter resulted in 38 AH-1Gs being supplied from the US Army production line in 1969.

This aircraft , AH-1J SEA COBRA, on loan courtesy of:
the National Naval Aviation Museum at Pensacola, Florida. 
BUREAU/SERIAL #  157771         NNAM ACCESSION # 1994.083.001

Interactive Display

Click on a colored PIN to display additional information (text, video, recording, images).

This feature is an extra benefit as you walk around the display in our Airpark. 

WIFI is provided for your mobile device.  A network QR code or name/password is provided at the desk.

Videos of Interest

Video #1: Behind the Scenes: AH-1J Sea Cobra   Run Time (0:02:19)

Video #2: Veteran pilot gives tour of Super Cobra    Run Time (0:02:52)

Video #3:  Museum Aircraft History Series ~ Bell AH-1S Cobra    Run Time (0:32:47)

Video #4  ‘Zulu Cobra’ Helicopter Is One Of The Marines’ Most Powerful Weapons   This was the last version of the Cobra before being retired.    Run Time (0:01:20)

History

The primary missions of the Cobra are helicopter Close Air Support (CAS), escort of transport helicopters and ground convoys, armed reconnaissance, helicopter air-to-air attack, anti-shipping operations, and coordination and terminal control of fixed wing CAS, artillery, mortars, and naval gunfire. It is the only western attack helicopter with a proven air-to-air and anti-radar missile capability. The rear seat pilot is primarily responsible for maneuvering the aircraft. The front pilot controls the aircraft’s weapons systems.

ROLE: Attack and close support helicopter
Crew: Two
Number Built: 69
Bureau Number: 157771
Total Landings: 6323

SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: Pratt & Whitney (Canada) T400-CP-400
Length: (rotor turning) 52 feet 11 1/2 inches
Height: 13 ft 6 1/4 in
Main Rotor Diameter: 44 ft.
Tail Rotor Diameter: 8 ft 6 in
Weight: 6,667 lbs.
Armament: One M-197 three-barrel 20mm cannon and 2200 lbs external ordnance

PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 207 mph
Service Ceiling: 11,398 ft
Range: 359 miles

Previous Duty Stations

AH-1J SeaCobra
Bureau Number :157771
Total Landings: 6323

31 Aug 1970:Accepted on charge at USAACOM, Fort Worth, TX.
04 Sep 1970:Taken on charge, RDT, MCAS New River, NC.
14 Jan 1971:Taken on charge at USAACOM, Fort Worth, TX.
24 May 1971:Taken on charge, HMA-269, New River, NC.
13 Aug 1971:Taken on charge, H&MS 26, New River, NC.
10 Dec 1971:Taken on charge, HMA-269, New River, NC.
06 May 1975:Taken on charge, HMA-261, New River, NC.
14 Jun 1975:Taken on charge, HMA-269, New River, NC.
16 Dec 1976:Taken on charge, HMA-461, New River, NC.
04 Mar 1977:Taken on charge, HMA-269, New River, NC.
27 Apr 1977:Taken on charge, HMA-461, New River, NC.
01 Jun 1977:Taken on charge, HMA-269, New River, NC.
22 Apr 1978:Taken on charge, HMA-169, Camp Pendleton, CA.
09 Mar 1979:Taken on charge, HMM-262, Kaneohe, HI.
13 Sep 1979:Taken on charge, HMA-169, Camp Pendleton, CA.
04 Oct 1979:Taken on charge, HMA-369, Camp Pendleton, CA.
06 Jun 1980:Taken on charge, NATTC, Millington, TN
28 Dec 1982:Struck off charge

Abbreviations used:

USAACOM:US Army Area Command
MCAS:Marine Corps Air Station
RDT: Research Development Test
HMA:
Marine Attack Helicopter Squadron
H&MS:Headquarters and Maintainance
NATTC:Naval Air Technical Training Center