Helicopters are an integral part of modern militaries. They are versatile vehicles that can be configured to perform various missions. For example, helicopters can perform transport, search and rescue, and close support. A powerful weapon platform, helicopters can also be used to transport people. As such, they are used by the Army and Marine Corps to perform many important tasks.
The US Navy uses helicopters to provide support for infantry, artillery and other troops. They have been utilized in reconnaissance, search and rescue, and anti-surface warfare. The AH-64D Apache helicopter has a speed of 140 mph. It also features a forward-looking, infrared imager as well as a night vision camera. A 30,000-pound payload capacity is available in the internal payload.
The United States first used military helicopters to combat during World War II. They were designed to transport combat troops quickly and efficiently on the battlefield. They were also a moral booster for fighter pilots. Helicopters were more popular during the Korean War. These aircraft displayed a level of performance unmatched in other conflicts.
In the Korean conflict, helicopters were used to rescue downed flight crews. These missions were done at night. They were able, within minutes, to return downed pilots safely to their vessels. The HO-3S, EH-101 and TH-6B were among the most prominent helicopter rescues.
Military helicopters can also help people in times of disasters like major floods and earthquakes. They can also be used to transport hot food to isolated areas. They are often exposed to small arms fire from aerial enemy opposition while they are in flight.
The US Army still has attack helicopters in its arsenal. They are one of the most powerful weapons platforms for tank warfare. These helicopters can operate in close-air support situations because of their low-speed and low-altitude capabilities. Attack helicopters can still provide close air support for tank-killers throughout the Middle East, unlike other types.
Helicopters can be configured to fit a wide range sizes and weights. Basic airframes can be stretched or shortened, and can be fitted with new engines, electronics, and instrumentation. All these components can be combined to reduce the price of a helicopter. These components require armor protection in combat missions. Armor protects the most complex parts of the airframe such as the cockpit and fuel tanks. Kevlar armour is often used to protect the control cables.
Basic TH-6B helicopters have a rotor diameter that is 79 feet and a crew compartment that can hold 23 mm (0.91in) rounds. The ceiling is more than 15000 ft. Specialized devices, such as rescue hoists, can be used for personnel retrieval while hovering.
Marine Corps helicopters are used for many tasks including reconnaissance, medical evacuation, and visual flank security. For example, the MH-6 was created for very close support.
Helicopters have played an integral role in numerous important events, including the rescue and evacuation of flight crews and civilians from flooding. In the future, Marine commanders plan to increase the number of helicopters they use.