AH-1 Cobra

The AH-1 Cobra (company designation: Bell 209) is a two-bladed, single engine attack helicopter manufactured by Bell. It shares a common engine, transmission and rotor system with the older UH-1 Iroquois. The AH-1 is also sometimes referred to as the HueyCobra or Snake.

The AH-1 was the backbone of the United States Army's attack helicopter fleet, but has been replaced by the AH-64 Apache in Army service. Upgraded versions continue to fly with several other users. The AH-1 twin engine versions remain in service with United States Marine Corps as the service's primary attack helicopter.


Role Attack helicopter
Manufacturer Bell Helicopter
First flight 7 September 1965
Introduction 1967
Status Active service
Primary users United States Army
Japan Self Defense Forces Pakistan air force
Republic of Korea Army
Israeli Air Force
Produced 1967-present
Number built 1,116
Unit cost US$11.3 million (1995) (AH-1 HueyCobra)[1]
Developed from UH-1 Iroquois
Variants AH-1 SeaCobra/SuperCobra
Bell 309 KingCobra