View source for Bell AH-1Z Viper

{{short description|American attack helicopter}}
{{Use American English|date=July 2023}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox aircraft
 |name= AH-1Z Viper
 |image= File:AH-1Z attack helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775 Group 41, execute pre-flight checks and procedures (cropped).jpg
 |caption= An AH-1Z of the [[USMC]]
 |type= [[Attack helicopter]]
 |national_origin= United States
 |manufacturer= [[Bell Helicopter]]
 |designer= 
 |first_flight= 8 December 2000
 |introduction= 30 September 2010
 |retired= 
 |status= In service
 |primary_user= [[United States Marine Corps]]
 |more_users= [[Royal Bahraini Air Force]] <br>[[Czech Air Force]] <!--Limit TOTAL of THREE (3) 'more users' here. Please separate with <br/>. -->
 |produced= 2000–present
 |number_built= 195<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bellflight.com/en-US/219854-bell-completes-u-s-marine-corps-ah-1z-program-of-record |title=Delivery of the 189th AH-1Z Viper to the U.S. Marine Corps |date=2 November 2022}}</ref><ref name="Hoyle 1122"/>
 |developed_from= [[Bell AH-1 SuperCobra]]
 |variants= 
}}

The '''Bell AH-1Z Viper'''<ref name=dod>{{Cite report |url = https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA309868 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220601063718/https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA309868 |url-status = live |archive-date = June 1, 2022 |title =Model Designation of Military Aerospace Vehicles |id=DOD 4120-15L |date = 12 May 2004 |website=Defense Technical Information Center |access-date = 21 April 2010}}</ref> is a twin-engine [[attack helicopter]], based on the [[Bell AH-1 SuperCobra|AH-1W SuperCobra]], designed and produced by the American aerospace manufacturer [[Bell Helicopter]]. It is one of the latest members of the prolific [[Bell Huey family]]. It is often called "Zulu Cobra", based on the [[NATO phonetic alphabet|military phonetic alphabet]] pronunciation of its variant letter.

The AH-1Z was developed during the 1990s and 2000s as a part of the [[H-1 upgrade program]] on behalf of the [[United States Marine Corps]] (USMC). It is essentially a modernisation of the service's existing AH-1Ws, and was originally intended to be a rebuild program before subsequent orders were made for new-build helicopters instead. The AH-1Z and [[Bell UH-1Y Venom]] utility helicopter share a common tailboom, engines, rotor system, drivetrain, avionics architecture, software, controls and displays for over 84% identical components. Furthermore, it features a four-blade, bearingless, composite main rotor system, uprated transmission, and a new target sighting system amongst other improvements.<ref name=bh_AH-1Z_pg>{{cite web |url = http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en/aircraft/military/bellAH-1Z.cfm |title = Bell AH-1Z |publisher = Bell Helicopter |access-date = 3 January 2008 |archive-date = 28 March 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070328222236/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en/aircraft/military/bellAH-1Z.cfm |url-status = dead }}</ref> On 8 December 2000, the AH-1Z conducted its [[maiden flight]]; [[Low rate initial production|low-rate initial production]] was launched in October 2003.

On 30 September 2010, the USMC declared that the AH-1Z had attained combat readiness; it fully replaced the preceding AH-1W Super Cobra during October 2020. The type forms a key element of the [[Aviation Combat Element]] (ACE) taskforce which support all phases of USMC expeditionary operations. Since its introduction, the USMC has pursued various upgrades, such as installing [[Link 16]] datalink and outfitting it with the [[AGM-179 JAGM|AGM-179A Joint Air-to-Ground Missile]] (JAGM). Additionally, numerous export customers have been sought for the AH-1Z, it has regularly competed with the [[Boeing AH-64 Apache]] for orders. The first export customer was the [[Royal Bahraini Air Force]], and the [[Czech Air Force]] has also ordered the type. At one point, Pakistan was set to operate its own AH-1Zs, but deliveries were blocked due to political factors.

==Development==

===Background===
Aspects of the AH-1Z can be traced back to the experimental [[AH-1 Cobra#Variants|Bell 249]] of 1979, which was essentially an upgraded AH-1S, having been equipped with the four-blade main rotor system from the [[Bell 412]] utility helicopter.<ref>{{cite book |last1 = Verier |first1 = Mike |title = Bell AH-1 Cobra |date = 1990 |publisher = Osprey |location = London |isbn = 0-85045-934-6 |pages = 72–78}}</ref> The Bell 249 was used as a demonstrator for Bell's ''Cobra II'' concept, and made an appearance at the [[Farnborough Airshow]] in 1980. As promoted by Bell, the Cobra II was to be equipped with various new and redesigned combat systems, which included the [[AGM-114 Hellfire]] [[air-to-ground missile]], a new targeting system, and was also to be powered by improved engines as well.<ref name=mod_battle/>

The further-developed Cobra 2000 proposal included the [[General Electric T700]] engine and a four-blade rotor. While Bell's proposal did generate some interest within the US Marine Corps, funding was not forthcoming to pursue its development at that time. During 1993, Bell opted to enter an AH-1W-based variant for the UK's new attack helicopter program. This derivative, which was named the ''CobraVenom'', featured a modern digital cockpit and could carry [[wire-guided missile]]s, Hellfire or [[Brimstone (missile)|Brimstone missiles]]. The CobraVenom design was further refined two years later, notably by the adoption of a four-blade rotor system. However, later that same year, a rival bid for the AH-64D Apache Longbow was selected to fulfil the program instead.<ref name=mod_battle>{{cite book |last = Donald |first = David |title = Modern Battlefield Warplanes |publisher = AIRTime Publishing |year = 2004 |isbn = 1-880588-76-5}}</ref><ref name= 'NYT 1995'>{{cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/1995/07/13/business/worldbusiness/13iht-chop.html?pagewanted=1 |title = U.K. Must Choose 1 of 3 Attack Copters: Pitched Battle Near Done |first = Erik |last = Ipsen |work = The New York Times |date = 13 July 1995 |access-date = 14 February 2017 |archive-date = 19 April 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150419190536/http://www.nytimes.com/1995/07/13/business/worldbusiness/13iht-chop.html?pagewanted=1 |url-status = live}}</ref>

===H-1 upgrade program===
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In 1996, the USMC launched the H-1 upgrade program by signing a contract with Bell Helicopter for upgrading 180 AH-1Ws into AH-1Zs and upgrading 100 [[Bell UH-1N Twin Huey|UH-1N]]s into [[Bell UH-1Y Venom|UH-1Ys]].<ref name=mod_battle/><ref name=Huey_Cobra>Bishop, Chris. ''Huey Cobra Gunships''. Osprey Publishing, 2006. {{ISBN|1-84176-984-3}}.</ref>  The H-1 program created completely modernized attack and [[utility helicopter]]s with considerable design commonality to reduce operating costs. The AH-1Z and UH-1Y share a common tailboom, engines, rotor system, drivetrain, avionics architecture, software, controls and displays for over 84% identical components.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/><ref name = "popmech 2020"/>

Bell participated in a joint government test team during the engineering manufacturing and development phase of the H-1 program. Research and development progressed slowly from 1996 to 2003.<ref name=mod_battle/>  The existing two-blade semi-rigid, teetering rotor system was replaced with a four-blade, hingeless, bearingless rotor system. The four-blade configuration provides improvements in flight characteristics including increased flight envelope, maximum speed, vertical rate of climb, payload and reduced rotor vibration level.<ref name=af_tech>[http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/supcobra/ AH-1W/AH-1Z Super Cobra Attack Helicopter, USA]. Airforce-Technology.com. Retrieved: 14 January 2008. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080316213925/http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/supcobra/ |date= 16 March 2008}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST|date=June 2016}}

The AH-1Z first flew on 8 December 2000.<ref>[http://www.helis.com/news/2000/ah1zff.htm "AH-1Z completes first flight"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220152307/http://www.helis.com/news/2000/ah1zff.htm |date=2008-02-20}}. Bell Helicopter, 7 December 2000.</ref>  Bell delivered three prototype aircraft to the [[United States Navy]]'s [[Naval Air Systems Command]] at [[Naval Air Station Patuxent River]] in July 2002, for the flight test phase of the program. Low-rate initial production began in October 2003,<ref name=mod_battle/> with deliveries running through 2018.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20081230094458/http://pao.navair.navy.mil/press_releases/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.view&Press_release_id=3440&site_id=17 "AH-1Z/UH-1Y complete developmental testing"]. US Navy, 6 March 2006.</ref>  In late 2006, a contract was awarded to [[Meggitt|Meggitt Defense Systems]] to develop a new linkless 20&nbsp;mm ammunition handling system to improve on the gun feed reliability of the existing [[Belt (firearms)|linked feed system]].<ref>{{cite web |url = https://meggittdefense.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Cobra.pdf |title = 20mm Linkless™ feed system: Cobra |publisher = Meggitt Defense Systems |access-date = 8 May 2022}}</ref>

In February 2008, the U.S. Navy adjusted the contract so the last 40 AH-1Zs were built as new airframes instead of the previously planned rebuild of AH-1Ws.<ref>{{cite web |last = Warwick |first = Graham |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/15/221550/bell-ah-1z-upgrade-to-switch-to-new-airframes.html |title = Bell AH-1Z upgrade to switch to new airframes |publisher = Flightglobal.com |date = 15 February 2008 |access-date = 18 August 2008 |archive-date = 21 August 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080821040044/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/15/221550/bell-ah-1z-upgrade-to-switch-to-new-airframes.html |url-status = dead }}</ref> In September 2008, the Navy requested an additional 46 airframes for the Marine Corps, bringing the total number ordered to 226.<ref name=more_H-1s>{{cite web |last = Trimble |first = Stephen |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/08/06/330700/bell-withdraws-ah-1z-from-indias-attack-helicopter-contest.html |title = US Navy proposes more UH-1Ys, AH-1Zs despite test phase setback |publisher = Flight International |date = 22 August 2008 |access-date = 24 January 2010 |archive-date = 9 August 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090809185656/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/08/06/330700/bell-withdraws-ah-1z-from-indias-attack-helicopter-contest.html |url-status = dead }}</ref> During 2010, the Marine Corps ordered 189 AH-1Zs, with 58 of them being new airframes,<ref name=Marines_Propose_Prod_Boost>{{cite web |last = Butler |first = Amy |url = http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/awx/2010/10/12/awx_10_12_2010_p0-261127.xml&headline=U.S.%20Marines%20Propose%20AH-1Z%20Production%20Boost |title = U.S. Marines Propose AH-1Z Production Boost |publisher = Aviation Week |date = 13 October 2010 |access-date = 13 October 2010}} {{dead link|date=November 2013}}</ref> with deliveries to continue until 2022.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-to-finish-marine-corps-deliveries-of-uh-1y-veno-448664/ |title = Bell to finish Marine Corps deliveries of UH-1Y Venom by end of 2018 |publisher = Flight International |date = 17 May 2018 |access-date = 19 May 2018 |archive-date = 30 March 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190330003423/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-to-finish-marine-corps-deliveries-of-uh-1y-veno-448664/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> On 10 December 2010, the Department of the Navy approved the AH-1Z for full-rate production.<ref name=Full-rate_production>{{cite web |title = Bell Helicopter AH-1Z earns Navy approval for full rate production |url = http://www.shephard.co.uk/news/rotorhub/bell-helicopter-ah-1z-earns-navy-approval-for-full-rate-production/7907/ |publisher = Shephard Group Limited |date = 10 December 2010 |access-date = 11 December 2010 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101216031211/http://www.shephard.co.uk/news/rotorhub/bell-helicopter-ah-1z-earns-navy-approval-for-full-rate-production/7907/ |archive-date = 16 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/snakes-rotors-usmc-h-1-helicopter-program-03541/ |title = Snakes and Rotors: The USMC's H-1 Helicopter Program |publisher = Defense Industry Daily |date = 30 December 2010 |access-date = 2 January 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110214005816/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/snakes-rotors-usmc-h-1-helicopter-program-03541/ |archive-date = 14 February 2011 |url-status = live}}</ref>

In November 2022, Bell delivered the 189th AH-1Z to the U.S. Marine Corps, completing the program of record for the Viper. Combined with the 160 UH-1Y airframes which completed delivery in 2018, it marked the final deliveries of the H-1 series rotorcraft for the U.S. military since deliveries began in 1959.<ref>[https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2022-11-04/bell-delivers-last-viper-attack-helicopter-marines Bell Delivers Last Viper Attack Helicopter to Marines]. ''Aviation International News''. 4 November 2022.</ref>

==Design==
[[File:AH1Z at the MCAS Miramar Air Show on 3 Oct 2008.JPG|thumb|An AH-1Z at an air show displaying four-blade rotors and longer-span stub wings]]

The Bell AH-1Z Viper is an attack helicopter derived from the earlier [[Bell AH-1 SuperCobra]]. When contrasted against its predecessor, it incorporates various improvements and advances, including new rotor technology, upgraded military avionics, updated weapons systems, and electro-optical sensors in an integrated weapons platform. Amongst other advantages provided by these changes, it has improved survivability and can locate targets at longer ranges and also attack them using precision weapons.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/> The airframe was extensively redesigned to maximise crashworthiness; measures include energy-absorbing [[landing gear]], fuel vapor inerting systems, [[self-sealing fuel tank]]s, energy-attenuating crashworthy seating, and a mass retention design approach applied to many major components. Active systems include [[countermeasure]] dispensers, radar warning, incoming/on-way missile warning, on-fuselage laser spot warning systems, and the Hover Infrared Suppression System (HIRSS) to protect the engine exhausts.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/>

The AH-1Z is equipped with a bearingless and hingeless rotor system; this has 75% fewer parts than that of four-bladed articulated systems. The rotor blades are composed of [[Composite material|composite]]s, which give them increased ballistic survivability; the rotor is equipped with a semi-automatic folding system, enabling the AH-1Z to be stored more efficiently aboard [[amphibious assault ship]]s and other means of transportation.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/> Efforts were made to maximise its maintainability and to minimise maintenance requirements; in comparison to the SuperCobra, numerous maintenance tasks have been eliminated, interactive electronic technical manuals have been produced, less spares storage is required, and accessibility has also been improved. Furthermore, various fault detection sensors are present to facilitate condition-based maintenance.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/>

[[File:AH-1Z Viper.webm|thumb|AH-1Z firing an [[AGM-179 JAGM]] and 2.75-inch (70 mm) [[Hydra 70]] rockets]]

The AH-1Z is equipped with a pair of redesigned stub wings, these being of substantially longer-span than those of the preceding SuperCobra. Each one has an additional wingtip station for a missile such as the [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]]. Each stub wing has two other stations for 2.75-inch (70&nbsp;mm) [[Hydra 70]] rocket pods, or AGM-114 Hellfire quad missile launchers. In early 2022 [[Initial Operational Capability]] (IOC) was reached with the [[AGM-179 JAGM]]; it uses the same type of missile launchers as the Hellfires.<ref name=":0" />  The [[AN/APG-78 Longbow]] fire control radar can also be mounted on a wingtip station.<ref name=mod_battle/><ref>[http://www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/jetds/an-apg.html AN/APG – Equipment Listing] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612031141/http://designation-systems.net/usmilav/jetds/an-apg.html |date = 12 June 2010}}. designation-systems.net</ref> Similarly, other mission equipment can be fitted to these stations, including 77 and 100 gallon external [[Drop tank|auxiliary fuel tank]]s, LUU-2A/B nighttime illumination [[flare]]s, and numerous types of practice munitions. Underneath the nose of the AH-1Z is an [[U.S. Helicopter Armament Subsystems#AH-1 Cobra|A/A49E-7 turret]] fitted with a [[20 mm caliber|20 mm (0.787 in)]] [[M197 electric cannon|M197]] three-barreled [[rotary cannon]]; this weapon has a higher muzzle velocity and flatter trajectory than predecessors; it is also compatible with M50-series air-to-air rounds.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/>

[[File:AH-1Z pilots with helmet mounted displays.jpg|thumb|left|AH-1Z pilots aboard {{USS|Makin Island|LHD-8|6}} wearing helmet mounted displays (displays not shown)]]
The cockpit of the AH-1Z has been designed so that both crewmembers have virtually identical controls; it can be readily flown from either the front or rear positions. These positions incorporate a [[HOTAS|Hands on Collective and Stick]] (HOCAS) side-stick architecture, which enables many functions to be carried out by the pilot without moving their hands from the flight controls.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/> Both of the two crew stations are provisioned with a pair of 8×6-inch multifunction [[liquid crystal display]]s (LCD) and a single 4.2×4.2-inch dual function LCD. The AH-1Z has an integrated avionics system developed by [[Northrop Grumman]]; this system includes two mission computers and an automatic flight control system. The communications suite combines a U.S. Navy RT-1824 integrated radio, UHF/VHF, COMSEC and [[modem]] into a single unit. The navigation suite includes an embedded [[Global Positioning System|GPS]] [[inertial navigation system]], a digital map system and Meggitt's low-airspeed air data subsystem, which allows weapons delivery when hovering.<ref name=af_tech/>

Crew members are equipped with the [[Thales Group|Thales]] "Top Owl" [[Helmet-mounted display|helmet-mounted sight and display system]].<ref name=bh_AH-1Z_pg/> This display provides a 24-hour day/night capability and a binocular display with a 40° field of view; its visor projection provides [[forward-looking infrared]] (FLIR) or video imagery. Furthermore, it has been designed from the onset to accommodate in-service upgrades.<ref name=AH-1Z_guide/> The [[Lockheed Martin]] target sight system (TSS) incorporates a third-generation FLIR sensor which provides target sighting and identification in day, night, or adverse weather conditions. It is a passive sensor, unlike radar, thus is untrackable. The TSS has various view modes and can track with FLIR or by TV.<ref name="AH-1Z_guide" /> The same system is also used on the [[Lockheed Martin KC-130|KC-130J]] Harvest HAWK.<ref>{{cite web |first = Samantha H. |last = Arrington. |url = http://www.dvidshub.net/news/70647/hueys-harvest-hawk-ordnance-marine-arms-aircraft-afghanistan |title = From Hueys to Harvest Hawk: Ordnance Marine arms aircraft in Afghanistan |publisher = [[DVIDS]] |date = 19 May 2011 |access-date = 19 May 2011 |archive-date = 6 April 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120406080203/http://www.dvidshub.net/news/70647/hueys-harvest-hawk-ordnance-marine-arms-aircraft-afghanistan |url-status = dead }}</ref>

==Operational history==
===United States===
[[File:AH-1Z lands on USS Makin Island LHD-8.jpg|thumb|A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z lands on {{USS|Makin Island|LHD-8|6}} in 2010.]]

During May 2005, it was announced that the AH-1Z had completed its first round of sea-based flight trials.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://pma276public.navair.navy.mil/pma276public/newsArticle.asp?itemID=37 |title = AH-1Z/UH-1Y complete first sea trials |publisher = US Navy |date = 13 June 2005 |access-date = 27 February 2008 |archive-date = 15 February 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080215193227/http://pma276public.navair.navy.mil/pma276public/newsArticle.asp?itemID=37 |url-status = dead }}</ref> On 15 October 2005, the USMC, through the Naval Air Systems Command, accepted delivery of the first AH-1Z production standard helicopter.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.janes.com/aerospace/military/news/jhms/jhms051207_1_n.shtml |title = Bell 449 SuperCobra and KingCobra |publisher = Jane's Information Group |date = 7 December 2005 |access-date = 27 February 2008 |archive-date = 27 December 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081227053733/http://www.janes.com/aerospace/military/news/jhms/jhms051207_1_n.shtml |url-status = dead }}</ref> Both the AH-1Z and UH-1Y completed their developmental testing during early 2006.<ref>{{cite web |last = Milliman |first = John |url = http://www.navair.navy.mil/nawcwd/nawcwd/news/2006/2006-03_ah1z_testing.htm |title = AH-1Z/UH-1Y complete developmental testing |publisher = US Navy |date = 1 March 2006 |access-date = 20 June 2009 |archive-date = 28 July 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110728013109/http://www.navair.navy.mil/nawcwd/nawcwd/news/2006/2006-03_ah1z_testing.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref> During the first quarter of 2006, initial examples of the type were transferred to the Operational Test Unit at the NAS Patuxent River to undergo operational evaluation (OPEVAL) testing.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20081230102420/http://pao.navair.navy.mil/press_releases/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.view&Press_release_id=3485&site_id=17 "AH-1Z/UH-1Y Start OPEVAL"]. US Navy, 6 May 2006.</ref> In February 2008, both the AH-1Z and UH-1Y began the second and final portion of OPEVAL testing.<ref>{{cite web |last = Warwick |first = Graham |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/20/221714/pictures-us-marine-corps-bell-ah-1z-and-uh-1y-enter-final-test-phase.html |title = US Marine Corps' Bell AH-1Z and UH-1Y enter final test phase |publisher = Flightglobal.com |date = 20 February 2008 |access-date = 27 February 2008 |archive-date = 7 February 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090207202038/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/20/221714/pictures-us-marine-corps-bell-ah-1z-and-uh-1y-enter-final-test-phase.html |url-status = dead }}</ref> On 30 September 2010, the USMC declared that the AH-1Z had attained combat readiness.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/09/30/348003/usmc-declares-ah-1z-viper-combat-ready.html |last = Trimble |first = Stephen |title = USMC declares AH-1Z Viper combat ready |publisher = Flight International |date = 30 September 2010 |access-date = 1 October 2010 |archive-url = http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20101007165326/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/09/30/348003/usmc-declares-ah-1z-viper-combat-ready.html |archive-date = 7 October 2010 |url-status = live}}</ref>

[[File:AH-1Z Viper Strait of Hormuz.jpg|thumb|Armed USMC AH-1Zs on the flight deck of an [[amphibious assault ship]]]]
Since the type's introduction, numerous upgrades have been investigated and integrated. During March 2022, it was announced that the [[AGM-179 JAGM|AGM-179A Joint Air-to-Ground Missile]] (JAGM) has achieved [[Initial Operational Capability|initial operational capability]] upon the AH-1Z; this munition will replace both the Hellfire and Maverick missiles.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/03/10/joint-missile-operational-capability/ |title = Joint Air-to-Ground Missile Achieves Initial Operational Capability |publisher = thedefensepost.com |first = Inder Singh |last = Bisht |date = 10 March 2022}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/marine-corps-expand-ah-1z-vipers-ship-hunting-capabilities-with-jagm-tests/146770.article |title = Marine Corps expand AH-1Z Viper's ship-hunting capabilities with JAGM tests |publisher = flightglobal.com |first = Garrett |last = Reim |date = 8 December 2021}}</ref> As of early 2022, work to install kits to facilitate a [[Link 16]] datalink upon both the AH-1Z and UH-1Y was underway.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.thedefensepost.com/2022/01/04/us-navy-helicopter-sensor-network/ |title = US Navy Seeks Combat Helicopter Sensor Networking Capability |publisher = thedefensepost.com |first = Joe |last = Saballa |date = 4 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/us-marine-corps-bell-ah-1z-viper-connects-to-ground-station-using-link-16/144087.article |title = US Marine Corps Bell AH-1Z Viper connects to ground station using Link 16 |publisher = flightglobal.com |first = Garrett |last = Reim |date = 9 June 2021}}</ref>

During October 2020, the USMC announced the withdrawal of the last of its AH-1W Super Cobras; the type has been entirely replaced by AH-1Z Vipers.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://taskandpurpose.com/news/marine-corps-super-cobra-helicopter-retires/ |title = The Marine Corps has officially retired the AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter |publisher = taskandpurpose.com |date = 20 October 2020}}</ref><ref name = "popmech 2020">{{cite web |url = https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a34497763/marines-retire-super-cobra-whiskey-attack-helicopter/ |title = The Marines Send Off the Super Cobra Attack Helicopter |publisher = [[Popular Mechanics]] |first = Kyle |last = Mizokami |date = 28 October 2020}}</ref> In USMC service, the AH-1Z forms a key element of the [[Aviation Combat Element]] (ACE), a task-orientated force of supporting the USMC throughout all phases of its expeditionary operations; key tasks in this capacity include offensive air support, anti-air warfare, assault support, and aerial reconnaissance. During the early 2020s, there were debates over cutting as much as one-third of the USMC's attack helicopter fleet in order to reallocate budget to other capabilities.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://taskandpurpose.com/opinion/force-design-2030-cripple-marine-aviation/ |title = The Marine Corps' Force Design plan will cripple its aviation |publisher = taskandpurpose.com |first = Terry |last = Drake |date = April 2022}}</ref> In May 2021, even as deliveries continued, several USMC AH-1Zs went into long-term storage at the [[309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group]] (AMARG) in [[Arizona]] as part of a wider restructuring effort.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/usmc-retires-first-ah-1z-helo-to-boneyard-as-deliveries-continue |title = USMC retires first AH-1Z helo to boneyard as deliveries continue |publisher = Janes |first = Gareth |last = Jennings |date = 17 May 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/39925/marines-set-to-retire-dozens-of-ah-1z-and-uh-1y-helicopters-as-part-of-force-redesign |title = Dozens Of AH-1Z And UH-1Y Helicopters Will Be Retired As Part Of The USMC's Force Redesign |publisher = thedrive.com |first = Joseph |last = Trevithick |date = 24 March 2021}}</ref>

===Bahrain===
On 27 April 2018, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced it had received U.S. State Department approval and notified Congress of a possible sale to [[Bahrain Defence Force|Bahrain]] of 12 AH-1Zs, 26 T-700 GE 401C engines, and armaments for an estimated cost of US$911.4 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=911400000|start_year=2018}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/bahrain-ah-l-z-attack-helicopters |title = Bahrain – AH-lZ Attack Helicopters |publisher = US DSCA |date = 27 April 2018 |access-date = 30 April 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180430115027/http://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/bahrain-ah-l-z-attack-helicopters |archive-date = 30 April 2018 |url-status = live}}</ref> In November 2018, Bahrain confirmed the order for 12 AH-1Zs,<ref name="FG_Bahrain_confirms_purchase">{{cite web |last1 = Morrison |first1 = Murdo |title = Bahrain confirms purchase of 12 AH-1Z Vipers |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bahrain-confirms-purchase-of-12-ah-1z-vipers-453673/ |website = Flight Global |date = 15 November 2018 |access-date = 15 November 2018 |location = Bahrain |url-status = live |archive-url = https://archive.today/20181115205434/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bahrain-confirms-purchase-of-12-ah-1z-vipers-453673/ |archive-date=15 November 2018 |df=dmy-all}}</ref> and the first six were delivered in mid-2022.<ref name="Hoyle 1122">{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/bahraini-ah-1z-makes-show-debut-as-deliveries-gather-pace/150918.article|title=Bahraini AH-1Z makes show debut, as deliveries gather pace|last=Hoyle|first=Craig|date=10 November 2022|work=FlightGlobal|access-date=10 November 2022}}</ref>

Production of AH-1Zs for Bahrain were completed in December 2022 and final deliveries will be made in 2023.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/news/defense-aviation-news/2023-news-aviation-aerospace/february/8905-bell-completes-bahrain-ah-1z-attack-helicopter-program-of-record.html | title=Bell completes Bahrain AH-1Z attack helicopter program of record }}</ref>

===Czech Republic===
[[File:Bell_AH-1Z_Viper_CzAF_0487_at_NATO_Days_2023.jpg|thumb|A Czech Air Force AH-1Z, [[NATO Days in Ostrava]] 2023]]

In 2016, Bell was also interested in selling the AH-1Z to the Czech Republic, which sought to retire its Soviet-era [[Mil Mi-24]] gunships.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://polska-zbrojna.pl/home/articleshow/18589?t=Vipery-dla-Grupy-Wyszehradzkiej- |title= Vipers for V4 |language= pl |publisher= Polska Zbrojna |year = 2016 |access-date = 25 February 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160228143712/http://www.polska-zbrojna.pl/home/articleshow/18589?t=Vipery-dla-Grupy-Wyszehradzkiej- |archive-date = 28 February 2016 |url-status = live}}</ref> In December 2019, the Czech Republic finalized the sale with the U.S. of four AH-1Zs for the [[Czech Air Force]].<ref name = "Czech to2024"/><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/bell-restarts-uh-1y-venom-helicopter-production-for-czech-republic-order/144673.article |title = Bell restarts UH-1Y Venom helicopter production for Czech Republic order |publisher = flightglobal.com |first = Garrett |last = Reim |date = 21 July 2021}}</ref> In March 2022, Czech Defense Minister [[Jana Černochová]] announced plans to buy further helicopters, attributing this decision to the recent [[2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine|Russian invasion of Ukraine]].<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2022/03/18/czech-republic-weighs-upping-its-order-of-bell-made-venom-viper-helicopters/ |title = Czech Republic weighs upping its order of Bell-made Venom, Viper helicopters |publisher = defensenews.com |first = Jaroslaw |last = Adamowski |date = 18 March 2022}}</ref>

===Other foreign interest===
During the early 2010s, the AH-1Z was being offered to South Korea, competing against the AH-64 Apache and the [[TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK]] attack helicopters.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usa-issues-fms-documents-for-south-korean-ah-1z-ah-64d-bids-376933/ |title = Korea helicopter bids |publisher = Flightglobal.com |date = 26 September 2012 |access-date = 26 September 2012 |archive-date = 15 June 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130615213710/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usa-issues-fms-documents-for-south-korean-ah-1z-ah-64d-bids-376933/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> During April 2013, South Korea announced the selection of the rival AH-64E bid.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20130417000954 |title = Seoul to Purchase 36 Apache Helicopters |newspaper = Korea Herald |first = Sang-ho |last = Song |date = 17 April 2013 |access-date = 17 April 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170620010738/http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20130417000954 |archive-date = 20 June 2017 |url-status = live}}</ref>

In April 2015, the U.S. State Department approved a possible [[Foreign Military Sales]] (FMS) to Pakistan for 15 AH-1Z Vipers with Hellfire missiles, associated equipment and support worth up to $952 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=952000000|start_year=2015}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.defensenews.com/air/2015/04/07/state-dept-oks-952m-pakistan-helo-deal/ |title = State Dept. OKs $952M Pakistan Helo Deal |first2 = Usman |last2 = Ansari |first1 = Joe |last1 = Gould |date = 8 August 2017 |website = Defense News |access-date = 9 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/national/07-Apr-2015/us-okays-attack-helicopters-hellfire-missiles-for-pakistan-under-1-billion-sale |title = US okays attack helicopters, hellfire missiles for Pakistan under $1 billion sale |newspaper = Daily Times |year = 2015 |access-date = 7 April 2015 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150410191902/http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/national/07-Apr-2015/us-okays-attack-helicopters-hellfire-missiles-for-pakistan-under-1-billion-sale |archive-date = 10 April 2015}}</ref> In early 2016 Pakistan was reportedly set to receive nine AH-1Zs by September 2018.<ref name="Janes_9_delivery">{{cite web |url = http://www.janes.com/article/59267/pakistan-to-receive-nine-ah-1z-attack-helos |title = Pakistan to receive nine AH-1Z attack helos |publisher = IHS Janes |date = 5 April 2016 |access-date = 28 August 2016 |archive-date = 14 September 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160914011821/http://www.janes.com/article/59267/pakistan-to-receive-nine-ah-1z-attack-helos |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pakistan-orders-nine-more-bell-ah-1z-gunships-423882/ |title = Pakistan orders nine more Bell AH-1Z gunships |publisher = Flight Global |date = 5 April 2016 |access-date = 28 August 2016 |archive-date = 10 September 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160910224058/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pakistan-orders-nine-more-bell-ah-1z-gunships-423882/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> However, Pakistan's order was placed on hold on account of political tensions between the U.S. and Pakistan. The order for 12 aircraft has not been cancelled; by May 2019, nine have been built but are stored at the 309th AMARG base, awaiting a resolution to the friction between the two countries.<ref>{{cite magazine |author = <!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title = Nine Pakistan AH-1Z now stored at AMARG |magazine = [[AirForces Monthly]] |publisher = Key Publishing |date = May 2019 |page = 26}}</ref>

During 2016, it was reported that the Royal Moroccan Air Force was interested in procuring a number of AH-1Zs.<ref>{{Cite web |url = https://ledesk.ma/2016/04/14/lhelicopteriste-americain-bell-cherche-a-vendre-son-ultime-cobra-aux-far/ |title = L'hélicoptériste américain Bell cherche à vendre son ultime cobra aux Forces armées royales |date = 14 April 2016 |website = Le Desk |access-date = 26 May 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181215122607/https://ledesk.ma/2016/04/14/lhelicopteriste-americain-bell-cherche-a-vendre-son-ultime-cobra-aux-far/ |archive-date = 15 December 2018 |url-status = live}}</ref>

In November 2016, Bell Helicopter signed a memorandum of understanding with Romanian airspace company IAR – Ghimbav Brasov Group for potential collaboration on the AH-1Z.<ref>{{cite web |last1 = Woodward |first1 = Andrew |url = http://www.bellhelicopter.com/news/press-release/2016/11/mou-iar |title = Bell Helicopter signs Memorandum of Understanding with IAR – Ghimbav Brasov |work = Bell Helicopter |location = Fort Worth, Texas |date = 14 November 2016 |access-date = 15 November 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161116101519/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/news/press-release/2016/11/mou-iar |archive-date = 16 November 2016 |url-status = dead |df = dmy-all}}</ref>  In August 2017, [[Romania]] also signed a letter of intent with Bell Helicopter to establish a joint venture with Romanian state-owned [[ROMARM]] for the potential procurement of a number of AH-1Zs.<ref>{{cite web |title = Romania signs LoI with Bell Helicopter for attack helicopters |url = http://www.airforce-technology.com/news/newsromania-signs-agreement-with-bell-helicopter-for-attack-helicopters-5897484 |website = Airforce Technology |date = 10 August 2017 |access-date = 23 August 2017 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20170823233431/http://www.airforce-technology.com/news/newsromania-signs-agreement-with-bell-helicopter-for-attack-helicopters-5897484 |archive-date = 23 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title = Romania, Bell Helicopter sign LOI for AH-1Z Viper combat helicopter acquisition |url = https://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2017/august/3667-romania-bell-helicopter-sign-loi-for-ah-1z-viper-combat-helicopter-acquisition.html |website = Air Recognition |date = 9 August 2017 |access-date = 23 August 2017 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20170823233456/https://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2017/august/3667-romania-bell-helicopter-sign-loi-for-ah-1z-viper-combat-helicopter-acquisition.html |archive-date = 23 August 2017}}</ref>

In 2017, Bell promoted both the AH-1Z and the UH-1Y Venom to the [[Australian Army]] as a potential replacement for their existing fleet of [[Eurocopter Tiger]] attack helicopters.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://aviationweek.com/avalon-airshow/airbus-optimistic-australia-s-tigers-bell-boeing-circle |title = Airbus Optimistic On Australia's Tigers As Bell, Boeing Circle |date = 1 March 2017 |publisher = [[Aviation Week]] |access-date = 5 March 2017 |archive-date = 6 March 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170306033947/http://aviationweek.com/avalon-airshow/airbus-optimistic-australia-s-tigers-bell-boeing-circle |url-status = dead }}</ref> In January 2021, the Australian Government announced that it would purchase the AH-64E Apache to replace its Tigers.<ref>{{cite news |title = Apache chosen as armed helicopter replacement |url = https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/apache-chosen-as-armed-helicopter-replacement |access-date = 16 January 2021 |work = Australian Defence Magazine |date = 15 January 2021}}</ref>

In July 2017, Bell Helicopter and [[Polish Armaments Group]] signed a letter of intent planning on cooperating on the UH-1Y and AH-1Z helicopters, forming a potential bid for the Polish Kruk attack helicopter acquisition program, part of a wider modernization effort.<ref>{{cite web |last1 = Tomkins |first1 = Richard |title = Bell, PGZ to cooperate on military helicopters for Poland |url = https://www.upi.com/Bell-PGZ-to-cooperate-on-military-helicopters-for-Poland/5601501082332/ |website = United Press International |access-date = 23 August 2017 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20170823234139/https://www.upi.com/Bell-PGZ-to-cooperate-on-military-helicopters-for-Poland/5601501082332/ |archive-date = 23 August 2017 |date = 26 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1 = Nicholas |first1 = Scott |title = Textron Subsidiary, PGZ to Cooperate on AH-1Z, UH-1Y Helicopter Offerings for Poland |url = http://blog.executivebiz.com/2017/07/textron-subsidiary-pgz-to-cooperate-on-ah-1z-uh-1y-helicopter-offerings-for-poland/ |website = Executive Biz |access-date = 23 August 2017 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20170823234051/http://blog.executivebiz.com/2017/07/textron-subsidiary-pgz-to-cooperate-on-ah-1z-uh-1y-helicopter-offerings-for-poland/ |archive-date = 23 August 2017 |date = 27 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1 = Fuller |first1 = S.L. |title = Bell Signs Letter of Intent with Polish Firm for UH-1Y, AH-1Z |url = http://www.rotorandwing.com/2017/07/27/bell-signs-letter-intent-polish-firm-uh-1y-ah-1z/ |website = Rotor and Wing International |date = 27 July 2017 |access-date = 23 August 2017 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20170823233953/http://www.rotorandwing.com/2017/07/27/bell-signs-letter-intent-polish-firm-uh-1y-ah-1z/ |archive-date = 23 August 2017}}</ref> In March 2022, in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Poland has reportedly delayed a decision on new attack helicopters until after the completion of a sweeping security review.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/defence-helicopter/poland-holds-off-on-buying-new-attack-helicopters/ |title = Poland holds off on buying new attack helicopters pending state security assessment |publisher = shephardmedia.com |first = Tim |last = Martin |date = 30 March 2022}}</ref>

In October 2017, Thailand's minister of Defence [[Prawit Wongsuwan]] stated that Thailand is looking onto replacing its fleet of aging AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters and will launch a procurement committee to look into the matter. [[Royal Thai Army]] officials have said that they are interested in the AH-1Z, as well as the [[Agusta A129 Mangusta]], [[Mil Mi-28]], [[CAIC Z-10]], Bell AH-1 SuperCobra and Boeing AH-64 Apache.<ref>{{cite web |last1 = Grevatt |first1 = Jon |title = Thailand plans combat helicopter acquisition |url = http://www.janes.com/article/74753/ |website = IHS Jane's 360 |date = 10 October 2017 |access-date = 10 October 2017 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20171010224448/http://www.janes.com/article/74753/thailand-plans-combat-helicopter-acquisition |archive-date = 10 October 2017 |url-status = dead }}</ref>

On 30 April 2020, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced it had received U.S. State Department approval and notified Congress of a possible sale to the Philippines of either six AH-1Z attack helicopters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $450 million or six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $1.5 billion.<ref>{{Cite web |url = https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/philippines-ah-1z-attack-helicopters-and-related-equipment-and-support |title = Philippines – AH-1Z Attack Helicopters and Related Equipment and Support |publisher = Defense Security Cooperation Agency}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url = https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/philippines-apache-ah-64e-attack-helicopters-and-related-equipment-and-support |title = Philippines – Apache AH-64E Attack Helicopters and Related Equipment and Support |publisher = Defense Security Cooperation Agency}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2020/04/30/us-approves-apache-viper-attack-helicopter-options-for-philippines/ |title = US approves Apache Viper attack helicopter options for Philippines |publisher = Defense News |date = 30 April 2020}}</ref>

Nigeria has sought to procure AH-1Zs for some time. Sales were initially blocked by Congress over [[human rights]] concerns; however, during April 2022, it was announced that the U.S. State Department had given its approval for the sale of the type along with support apparatus via a nearly $1 billion contract.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://businessday.ng/aviation/article/explainer-what-to-know-about-the-1bn-attack-helicopters-us-sold-to-nigeria/ |title = Explainer: What to know about the $1bn attack helicopters US sold to Nigeria |publisher = businessday.ng |author = Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha and Godsgift Onyedinefu |date = 17 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.aviacionline.com/2022/04/u-s-authorizes-sale-of-ah-1z-viper-to-nigeria-but-without-hellfire-missiles/?nowprocket=1 |title = U.S. authorizes sale of AH-1Z Viper to Nigeria, but without Hellfire missiles |publisher = aviacionline.com |first = Gastón |last = Dubois |date = 15 April 2022}}</ref>

In March 2023, it was announced that Slovakia will receive twelve AH-1Zs at a discount after the nation sent its retired [[MiG-29]] fighters to Ukraine.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--not stated--> |date= 22 March 2023 |title=Slovakia gets U.S. helicopter offer after sending jets to Ukraine|url= https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/slovakia-gets-us-helicopter-offer-after-sending-jets-ukraine-2023-03-22/|work= Reuters|location= |access-date=22 March 2023}}</ref>

==Operators==
[[File:Bell AH-1Z Viper Users.png|thumb|Map with current operators of the Bell AH-1Z in blue]]

;{{BHR}}
* [[Royal Bahraini Air Force]] (6 delivered out of 12 on order)<ref name="Hoyle 1122"/>
;{{flag|Czech Republic}}
* [[Czech Air Force]] (10 delivered)<ref name= "Czech to2024">{{Cite web |url= https://www.verticalmag.com/news/czech-h-1-deal-will-keep-bells-production-line-open-at-least-through-2024/ |title= Czech H-1 deal will keep Bell's production line open at least through 2024 |publisher= verticalmag.com |first= Dan |last= Parsons |date= 16 December 2019}}</ref> Six to be given via the Excess Defense Articles program with the one Viper remaining on order.<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://ct24.ceskatelevize.cz/domaci/3523298-cernochova-spojene-staty-daji-cesku-osm-vrtulniku |title= Černochová: Spojené státy dají Česku zdarma osm vrtulníků |publisher= Czech Television |first= Petra |last= Bahounkova |date= 18 August 2022 }}</ref>
<!-- Please do not add Pakistan here. The order is on hold and likely to be canceled. See the Foreign interest section above. -->
;{{flag|Nigeria}}
* [[Nigerian Air Force]] (12 on order).<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/air-platforms/latest/us-dod-confirms-nigerian-ah-1z-buy | title=US DoD confirms Nigerian AH-1Z buy }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.avionslegendaires.net/2024/01/actu/grace-au-nigeria-lafrique-souvre-au-bell-ah-1z-viper/ | title=Grâce au Nigéria l'Afrique s'ouvre au Bell AH-1Z Viper | date=4 January 2024 }}</ref>
;{{flag|Slovakia}}
* [[Slovak Air Force]] (12 on offer).<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--not stated--> |date= 22 March 2023 |title=Slovakia gets U.S. helicopter offer after sending jets to Ukraine |url= https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/slovakia-gets-us-helicopter-offer-after-sending-jets-ukraine-2023-03-22/ |work= Reuters |location= |access-date=22 March 2023}}</ref> After sending its 13 previously grounded MiG-29s to Ukraine, Slovakia has been offered 12 Vipers with 500 AGM-114 Hellfire II missiles at a reduced price of $340M, with the US covering $660M and the EU covering $213M of the cost. Announced by the US [[Defense Security Cooperation Agency]] (DSCA) on 31 July 2024, the US Department of State approval covers 12 helicopters and related weapons and equipment, training, and support for an estimated US$600 million.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-01 |title=US approves Viper attack helicopters for Slovakia |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/us-approves-viper-attack-helicopters-for-slovakia |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Default |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |title=Slovakia advances on $600m AH-1Z attack helicopter acquisition |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/slovakia-advances-on-600m-ah-1z-attack-helicopter-acquisition/159448.article |date=2024-08-02 |access-date=2025-01-03 |website=Flight Global |language=en |url-access=registration}}</ref>
;{{USA}}
* [[United States Marine Corps]] (189 delivered)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/11/bell-delivers-189th-and-final-ah-1z-viper-helicopter-to-the-usmc/ |title=Bell Delivered Final AH-1Z Viper to USMC |date=2 November 2022 |website=Navalnews.com |access-date=26 January 2023}}</ref>

==Specifications (AH-1Z)==
[[File:Bell AH-1Z Viper Line Drawing.svg|right|400px]]
[[File:AH-1Z at Miramar Airshow Oct 3 2008.JPG|thumb|Front view of AH-1Z at the [[Marine Corps Air Station Miramar|MCAS Miramar]] Air Show]]
[[File:AH-1Z Viper Armament.jpg|thumb|AH-1Z Viper loaded with [[AGM-179 JAGM]] missiles, an [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]], and [[Hydra 70]] rockets]]

{{Aircraft specs
|ref= ''Bell Specifications'',<ref name=AH-1Z_guide>{{cite web |url = http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en_US/Military/AH-1Z/AH_1Z.html |title = The Bell AH-1Z Zulu |publisher = Bell Helicopter |access-date = 16 July 2012 |archive-date = 17 December 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131217015752/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en_US/Military/AH-1Z/AH_1Z.html#/?tab=features-tab |url-status = dead }}</ref> ''The International Directory of Military Aircraft, 2002–2003'',<ref name=Frawley_military>{{cite book |last = Frawley |first = Gerard |title = The International Directory of Military Aircraft |page = 37 |publisher = Aerospace Publications |year = 2002 |isbn= 1-875671-55-2}}</ref> ''Modern Battlefield Warplanes''<ref name=mod_battle/>
|prime units?= kts
<!--   General characteristics
-->
|crew= Two: pilot and co-pilot/gunner (CPG)
|length ft= 58
|length in= 3
|length note=
|width ft=<!-- if applicable -->
|width in=<!-- if applicable -->
|width note=
|height ft= 14
|height in= 4
|height note=
|empty weight lb= 12,300
|empty weight note=
|gross weight lb=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight lb= 18,500
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
<!--   Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number= 2
|eng1 name= [[General Electric T700-GE-401C]]
|eng1 type= [[turboshaft]]
|eng1 shp= 1,800
|eng1 note=

|rot number= 1
|rot dia ft= 48
|rot dia in=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area sqft= 1,808
|rot area note= 4-bladed main and tail rotors<!--<br />
*'''Blade section:''' - [[NACA airfoil|NACA 0012 mod (11.3%)]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1 = Lednicer |first1 = David |title = The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url = https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website = m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date = 16 April 2019}}</ref>-->
<!--   Performance
-->
|max speed kts=
|max speed note=
|cruise speed kts= 160
|cruise speed note=
|never exceed speed kts= 222
|never exceed speed note=
|range nmi= 370
|range note=
|combat range nmi= 125
|combat range note= with {{cvt|2500|lb}} payload
|ferry range nmi=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling ft= 20,000
|ceiling note=<big>+</big>
|climb rate ftmin= 2,790
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|disk loading lb/sqft=
|disk loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass=
|more performance=
<!--   Armament
-->
|guns= <br/>
:*1 × [[20 mm caliber|20 mm (0.787 in)]] [[M197 electric cannon|M197]] three-barreled [[rotary cannon]] in the [[U.S. Helicopter Armament Subsystems#AH-1 Cobra|A/A49E-7 turret]] (750 round ammo capacity)
|bombs=

|hardpoints= 6 total pylon stations on stub wings
|hardpoint capacity= {{cvt|5764|lb|0}} maximum
|hardpoint rockets= <br />
***2.75 in (70 mm) [[Hydra 70]] (unguided) or [[Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System|APKWS II]] (guided)<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/baes-apkws-rockets-integrated-on-bells-new-model-407gt-383032/ |title = BAE's APKWS rockets integrated on Bell's new Model 407GT |publisher = Flightglobal.com |date = 5 March 2013 |access-date = 11 July 2013 |archive-date = 1 August 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130801031335/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/baes-apkws-rockets-integrated-on-bells-new-model-407gt-383032/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> rockets (Mounted in LAU-68C/A (7 shot) or LAU-61D/A (19 shot) launchers; up to 76 unguided or 38 guided rockets total)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bells-venom-and-viper-helos-court-foreign-sales-in-425607/ |title = Bell's Venom and Viper helos court foreign sales interest |publisher = Flightglobal.com |date = 20 May 2016 |access-date = 19 October 2016 |archive-date = 19 October 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161019143716/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bells-venom-and-viper-helos-court-foreign-sales-in-425607/ |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last = Trevithick |first = Joseph |url = https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/21315/jordans-drastically-upgraded-old-cobra-gunships-offer-big-capabilities-without-the-price-tag |title = Upgraded Old Cobra Gunships Offer Big Capabilities Without The Price Tag |publisher = The Drive, War Zone blog |date = 4 June 2018}}</ref>
|hardpoint missiles= <br />
***[[AIM-9 Sidewinder]] [[air-to-air missile]]s – one mounted on each wing tip station (two total)
***[[AGM-114 Hellfire]] [[air-to-surface missile]]s – Up to 16 missiles mounted in four 4-round M299 missile launchers, two on each wing
***[[AGM-179 JAGM]] [[air-to-surface missile]]s - Up to 8 missiles mounted<ref name="JAGM IOC">{{cite web |title=Marine Corps Joint Air-to-Ground Missile Achieves Initial Operational Capability |url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/3035212/marine-corps-joint-air-to-ground-missile-achieves-initial-operational-capability/ |website=America's Navy |access-date=14 May 2024}}</ref> (confirmed) in two 4-round missile launchers, one on each wing (16 is likely possible as JAGM uses Hellfire missile body)

|avionics=
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
* [[U.S. helicopter armament subsystems#AH-1 Cobra|U.S. helicopter armament subsystems, AH-1]]
|related=
* [[Bell YAH-63]]
* [[IAIO Toufan]]
* [[Panha 2091]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[HAL Prachand]]
* [[Eurocopter Tiger]]
* [[Kamov Ka-50|Kamov Ka-50/Ka-52]]
* [[Boeing AH-64 Apache#AH-64E|Boeing AH-64E]]
* [[Mil Mi-28]]
|lists=
* [[List of active United States military aircraft]]
* [[List of attack aircraft]]
* [[List of rotorcraft]]
}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{commons category|AH-1Z Viper}}
* [https://www.bellflight.com/products/bell-ah-1z AH-1Z page on Bell's official website]
* [https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2160217/ah-1z-viper-and-uh-1y-venom-helicopters/ AH-1Z Viper & UH-1Y Venom page - US Navy]
* [http://www.helis.com/Since80s/h_ah1z.php Bell AH-1Z Super Cobra (Bell 449) on helis.com]

{{Bell Aircraft}}
{{Huey family}}
{{USAF helicopters}}

[[Category:Bell aircraft|H-001Z, A]]
[[Category:United States military helicopters]]
[[Category:2000s United States attack aircraft|H-01 Cobra]]
[[Category:2000s United States helicopters]]
[[Category:Twin-turbine helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 2000]]
[[Category:Attack helicopters]]
[[Category:Single-rotor helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft with skid landing gear]]