Panha 2091 Explained
The
Panha 2091 "Toufan" is an Iranian overhaul and upgrade of the
Bell AH-1J International (export version of the SeaCobra)
attack helicopter purchased before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
[1] The overhaul and upgrade program is known as project number 2091 of the
Iranian Helicopter Support and Renewal Company (also known as Panha).
Design
Reported upgrades include:[1]
- new cockpit armored panels
- new, Iranian-designed canopy
- new avionics
- nose-mounted camera
- new cockpit design
The upgraded attack helicopter has a narrower airframe for greater flexibility and is armed with an M197 three-barreled 20-mm Gatling-type cannon in the A/A49E turret. Its wing-stub stations carry a pair of 19-tube 70-mm rocket launchers.
Bulletproof glass protects the pilot's cockpit and weapons officer station, internal avionics have been revamped with the addition of a GPS and receiver in the nose, and a warning radar attached to the rear, with four antennae providing 360 degrees coverage and all electronics systems integrated.
External links
Notes and References
- http://www.janes.com/defence/air_forces/news/jdw/jdw010827_1_n.shtml Panha hovers between repair and manufacturing