The Bell AH-1Z Viper is a twin-engine, tandem-seat attack helicopter built by Bell Helicopter for the United States Marine Corps (USMC).
Key Overview
• Primary Role: Close air support, anti-armor, armed escort, and aerial reconnaissance.
• Lineage: Developed from the AH-1W SuperCobra under the H-1 upgrade program.
• Parts Commonality: Shares roughly 85% of its components (including engines, rotor system, and software) with the Bell UH-1Y Venom utility helicopter to cut maintenance costs.
• Fleet Status: The USMC received its final production AH-1Z Viper in November 2022.