Zulu Passes OpEval (at last . . .)

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After design snafus, test delays, and a Nunn-McCurdy or two, the AH-1Z Cobra (commonly known as the "Zulu") has finally been found "operationally suitable and effective" by the Navy's operational test and evaluation force.

According to the press release from NAVAIR the OPEVAL report "noted that the AH-1Z fire control and additional weapons delivery modes allowed for improved weapons delivery accuracy, reduced pilot workload, and enhanced employment flexibility compared with the AH-1W."  Plus, the four-bladed rotor is BADASS (and eliminates that signature whop, whop thump that the Hueys became so well known for back in Vietnam days).

According to the release 189 new and remanufactured AH-1Z helicopters will be purchased, with deliveries expected to be complete by the end of 2021.

-- Ward

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