Helicopters have a central role in modern militaries. They are versatile vehicles that can be configured to perform various missions. Helicopters can transport, search and rescue, as well as provide close support. Additionally, they can be used as a weapon platform. The Army and Marine Corps use them to perform important tasks.
The US Navy, Marine Corps and other organizations use helicopters to aid infantry and artillery. They have been used in reconnaissance, search & rescue, anti-surface warfare, and other missions. The AH64D Apache helicopter can reach speeds up to 140 mph. It is equipped with a forward-looking infrared imager and a night vision system. A 30,000-pound payload capacity is available in the internal payload.
The United States used military helicopters for combat in the Second World War. They were developed as a means of rapid, rapid-transportation of combat forces on the battlefield. They also gave fighter pilots a boost in morale. Helicopters saw an increase in use during the Korean War. These aircraft demonstrated a level of performance not seen in other conflicts.
Helicopters were used during the Korean conflict to rescue downed flight crews. These missions were conducted at night. They were able within minutes to return the downed pilots back to their ships. Some of the most notable helicopter rescues included those performed by the HO-3S, the EH-101, and the TH-6B.
Military helicopters can also be used to assist victims of major earthquakes and floods. They are also used to deliver hot food to remote outposts. They are often exposed to small arms fire from aerial enemy opposition while they are in flight.
US Army has retained attack helicopters as a weapon platform for tank warfare. They can operate in close air support situations due to their low altitude and low speed capabilities. Attack helicopters have the unique ability to provide close-air support to tank-killers from the Middle East unlike other types.
Helicopters today can be made to suit a wide range of weights and sizes. Basic airframes can be stretched or shortened, and can be fitted with new engines, electronics, and instrumentation. All of these components help to limit the cost of a helicopter. For combat missions, however, they require armor protection. Armor includes the most extensive parts of the airframe, such as the cockpit, fuel tanks, and engines. Protecting control cables is common with Kevlar armour.
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. To retrieve personnel, rescue hoists and other specialized devices can be used when hovering.
Marine Corps helicopters are used by the Corps for a variety of purposes including reconnaissance, medical evacuation and visual flank protection. For example, the MH-6 was designed for close support.
Helicopters have played a crucial role in a variety of significant events in the past, including the rescue of flight crews and the rescue of civilians from floods. Marine commanders hope to increase the use helicopters.