The Bell OH-58 Kiowa Warrior: A Reliable Scout and Light Attack Helicopter
The Bell OH-58 Kiowa Warrior is a single-engine, single-rotor helicopter used by the United States Army for reconnaissance, surveillance, and light attack missions. With its impressive performance and versatility, the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior has become a reliable workhorse for the US military. Here are five interesting facts about this remarkable aircraft:
1. Origins and Design
The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior was developed from the Bell 206 JetRanger, a commercial helicopter designed for civilian use. The US Army selected the 206 as the basis for its new scout helicopter in 1967, and the aircraft underwent significant modifications to meet military requirements. The OH-58A Kiowa, the first military variant, entered service in 1969. Over the years, the aircraft has undergone numerous upgrades, resulting in the current OH-58D Kiowa Warrior configuration.
2. Mission Capabilities
The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior is designed to perform a variety of missions, including:
- Reconnaissance and surveillance
- Target acquisition and designation
- Light attack and close air support
- Command and control
- Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC)
The aircraft’s advanced avionics and sensor systems enable it to operate in a range of environments, from urban warfare to mountainous terrain.
3. Armament and Defensive Systems
The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior is equipped with a range of armament and defensive systems, including:
- Armament: The aircraft can carry up to 4 Hellfire missiles, 2 x 7-round 2.75-inch rocket pods, and a.50-cal machine gun.
- Defensive systems: The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior features a AN/AAQ-11 thermal imaging system, a AN/APR-39 radar warning receiver, and a AN/AAR-47 missile warning system.
These systems enable the aircraft to engage and defeat enemy targets while minimizing its own vulnerability.
4. Performance and Specifications
The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior has impressive performance characteristics, including:
- Speed: 150 knots (278 km/h)
- Range: 161 nautical miles (298 km)
- Service ceiling: 15,000 feet (4,572 meters)
- Powerplant: One Allison T703-AD-700A turboshaft engine, producing 650 shp (485 kW)
These performance specs enable the aircraft to operate in a range of environments and scenarios.
| Specifications | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | 42 feet 1 inch (12.83 meters) |
| Height | 9 feet 10 inches (3.00 meters) |
| Rotor diameter | 35 feet 4 inches (10.77 meters) |
| Empty weight | 4,565 pounds (2,072 kg) |
| Gross weight | 6,500 pounds (2,948 kg) |
5. Operational History
The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior has seen extensive service in various conflicts and operations, including:
- Vietnam War: The OH-58A Kiowa was first deployed in Vietnam in 1969, where it played a key role in reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
- Gulf War: OH-58D Kiowa Warriors were used in the 1991 Gulf War, providing reconnaissance and targeting support for coalition forces.
- Iraq War: The aircraft was used in Iraq from 2003 to 2011, conducting reconnaissance, surveillance, and light attack missions.
- Afghanistan War: OH-58 Kiowa Warriors have been deployed in Afghanistan since 2002, supporting coalition forces in counterinsurgency operations.
The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior has proven itself to be a reliable and versatile aircraft, serving the US military for over five decades.
📝 Note: The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior is currently being replaced by the Bell AH-6 Little Bird and the Boeing AH-64 Apache in US Army service.
The Bell OH-58 Kiowa Warrior has played a significant role in US military operations, providing reconnaissance, surveillance, and light attack capabilities in a range of environments. Its impressive performance, versatility, and reliability have made it a trusted workhorse for the US military.
What is the primary mission of the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior?
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The primary mission of the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior is reconnaissance and surveillance, with secondary roles in light attack, command and control, and medical evacuation.
What are the armament options for the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior?
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The OH-58 Kiowa Warrior can carry up to 4 Hellfire missiles, 2 x 7-round 2.75-inch rocket pods, and a.50-cal machine gun.
What is the service ceiling of the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior?
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The service ceiling of the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior is 15,000 feet (4,572 meters).
