Does anyone know if it is possible to mix weapons on the AH-1W. Specifically would it be possible to load TOW on one pylon and Hellfire on the pylon on the other side at the same time. If not, which weapon type was more common on USMC AH-1W in ODS, TOW or Hellfire?
Gino,
I"ve got several photos that show the Whiskey configured with TOWs on one side and Hellfires on the other. However, it’s my understanding from Bell ads that the early Whiskeys could not designate for the Hellfires but still prefered to carry some to be designated from ground units for their longer range and fire and forget capability. According to one Bell flyer, that was an upgrade that came with the NTS (Night Targeting System). If that info is accurate, I’m sure it’s even more likely that you might find a mix of the systems today. Hellfire for the range and power and TOWs for the punch without the weight of the Hellfire, but with all the expertise we have on this forum, I’m sure we’ll get more feedback for you. Are you working on a 1/35th Whiskey now? Good luck if so … and by the way, I just ordered my Dragon kit for the 3rd ID Abrams.
Thanks,
Paul
I thought I saw a photo of one with both and that is how I oufitted my MRC version and wanted to make sure it was historically accurate. I built my MRC 1/35 version a while ago and was perfoming Semi-Annual Services (dusting) the other day and wanted confirm that the set-up was correct. Here is a shot of it sandwiched between a 1/32 Revell OH-58C and a Israeli AH-1W:
Good job Gino! You say that’s the Revell kit of the '58? What did it take to make it a C model?
Paul
Not much conversion really. Cut off the heavy window frames and angle the rear door lower portion of the window to match the angle on bottom of the door. Heavily detailed the cockpit and rear cabin area to include floors, instrument panel, and new cyclic and collective controls, also added the overhead panel as well. Added splitters to the air intakes on the upper engine cowl as well. The kit is basically a “C” model as is. A little tweeking and it can look really good.
All I got was the dreaded “red x”. But, I am sure that they ALL look great!!
Randie [C):-)]
I just finished reading (for the 4th time) “AH-1 Cobra” from Squadron Signal and both TOW and Hellfire missiles can be carried simultaneously. I found it interesting that though the Hellfire is more powerful and has longer range, the TOW has the ability to be steered without the possibility of electronic jamming. I think I’d rather have the tools to 'GUN & RUN" rather than have to sit aroung and watch the hit.
For 10 bucks, the AH-1 Cobra Aircraft No. 168 is a great reference.
Alright Gino!!
I knew I was probably right. Those ARE 3 great looking whirlybirds!!! [tup][tup]
Randie [C):-)]
For operations while at sea, one of the inboard pylons is mounted with a 77 gal aux tank. As mentioned above, Snakes can go with a mix Hellfire, TOW load. Full loadout while on a deployed MEU (mission pending) is Hellfire, 7 shot 2.75" rockets, aux tank, TOW; doesn’t matter if left to right or right to left…the big boys are on the outside pylons.
Actually put the TOWs on the port side (away from the tail rotor) - lesson learned after wire wrapped around the tail rotor.
Aircraft and crew make it okay?