Helicopter Gunships: Deadly Combat Weapon Systems

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Details the history and development of the helicopter as a gun platform
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Covers the very beginnings of helicopter gunship development during the Korean War and mid-1950s
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Contains never before published colour and black-and-white photographs of early concepts to modern helicopter gunships
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Includes helicopter gunships developed by Communist nations and other countries
U.S. Army aviators pioneered the first helicopter gun platforms in the early 1950s. Today, helicopter gunships are the most unique element of rotary-wing aviation, redefining the term “close air support.” As the ultimate development of the military helicopter, these largely U.S. designed-and-built aircraft reign supreme as the premier attack platforms of modern aerial warfare.
American Helicopter Gunships begins with the Vietnam War as the ultimate proving ground that first utilized helicopter gunships and saw the development of other rotary-wing weapons systems. This book also explores fascinating post-war programs like the experimental Comanche, Blackhawk, and Apache.
Through in-depth research and exclusive high-quality photos, noted author and helicopter expert Wayne Mutza examines in vivid detail the numerous weapon systems mated with a surprisingly wide variety of helicopters.
Attention is also given to helicopter gunships developed by other Free World countries and Communist nations.