Bell UH-1N Twin Huey
{{Short description|Utility transport helicopter}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2022}}
{{Infobox aircraft
|name = UH-1N Iroquois
CH-135 Twin Huey
|image = File:120131-N-XK513-120 Sailor directs a UH-1N Huey helicopter from (VMM) 261 (cropped).jpg
|caption = A UH-1N "Huey" from squadron VMM-261, (Reinforced), 2012
|type = Utility helicopter
|national_origin = United States / Canada
|manufacturer = Bell Helicopter
|designer =
|first_flight = April 1969
|introduction = October 1970
|retired =
|status = In service
|primary_user = United States Air Force
|more_users = United States Marine Corps (historical)
Canadian Forces (historical)
United States Navy (historical)
|produced = 1969–1970s
|number_built =
|developed_from = Bell UH-1H Iroquois
|variants = Bell 212
Bell 412
Bell UH-1Y Venom
}}
The Bell UH-1N Twin Huey is a medium military helicopter designed and produced by the American aerospace manufacturer Bell Helicopter. It is a member of the extensive Huey family, the initial version was the CUH-1N Twin Huey (later CH-135 Twin Huey), which was first ordered by the Canadian Forces in 1968.
Barely a year following initial discussions, the UH-1N performed its maiden flight in April 1969. Its procurement by the US military was initially controversial due to the high level of Canadian content, such as its Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T turboshaft engines. However, the acquisition was approved and the Twin Huey was quickly delivered to the United States Air Force and being sent to front line combat units in Vietnam in October 1970. The following year, the Canadian Forces, United States Marine Corps, and the United States Navy all received their first examples; Bell was also quick to adapt the Twin Huey into a civilian helicopter, the Bell 212, as well as the later Bell 412.
The Twin Huey would see service in numerous conflicts, the first being the Vietnam War, where they were commonly used to support Special Forces reconnaissance missions. On the home front, they were used as the main utility helicopter at various ICBM launch sites, as well as operating as executive transports for carrying the US president and other high-ranking officials by Marine Helicopter Squadron One. USMC UH-1Ns were active during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, providing reconnaissance, communications, and close air support to ground forces. Overseas, UH-1Ns participated in the Colombian armed conflict and the Falklands War. In the 2010s and 2020s, multiple operators were in the process of replacing the Twin Huey with newer helicopters, such as the Bell UH-1Y Venom (a development of the UH-1N) and the AgustaWestland AW139.
Development
The UH-1N was originally developed out of negotiations between the Canadian Forces (CF) and Bell Helicopter on the topic of a new utility helicopter during 1968. Specifically, the CF wanted it to be based on the stretched-fuselage Bell 205, which the service already had experience of, but instead powered by a pair of engines for a higher level of safety. Furthermore, the selection of this engine, the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T turboshaft engine, was reportedly due to political factors. Its initial designation was CUH-1N Twin Huey; later, the CF adopted a new designation system under which the rotorcraft was redesignated CH-135 Twin Huey.{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/v2/equip/hst/twinhuey-eng.asp |title = Bell CH-135 Twin Huey |date = 6 April 2004 |author = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120924133930/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/v2/equip/hst/twinhuey-eng.asp |archive-date = 24 September 2012}} The CF approved the development of the rotorcraft on 1 May 1968,Mutza 1986, pp. 31-33. a total of 50 CH-135s were procured, the deliveries of which commenced during May 1971.Drendel 1983, pp. 14-17.
File:CH-135139TwinHuey01A.JPG, 1985]]
File:Bell UH-1N Iroquois (212), USA - Marines AN1273635.jpg
The US military quickly took an interest in the UH-1N and some officials were keen to quickly procure the type, yet the procurement came close to not happening. It was opposed by the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee at the time, L. Mendel Rivers, who disliked that the UH-1N's Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T engines were produced in Canada. The Liberal Canadian government of the time had not supported US involvement in Vietnam and had also opposed US policies in Southeast Asia, as well as accepting US draft dodgers. Rivers was also concerned that procuring the engines would result in a trade deficit situation with Canada. Congress only approved the Twin Huey purchase when it was assured that a US source would be found for the PT6T/T400 engines. Despite these concerns, the sale was permitted and the United States military services ordered 294 Bell 212s under the designation UH-1N, with deliveries commencing in 1970.
Having secured multiple military customers, Bell Helicopters became interested in developing a commercial utility model for the civilian market; during 1971, type certification was given to the Bell 212 by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Later on, homologation was obtained for instrument flight rules (IFR) operations, for which appropriate avionics were fitted. During 1977, the company certified the Bell 212 for single-pilot IFR operations, making it the first helicopter in the world to obtain such certification. Another key opportunity was the European market; Bell negotiated with the Italian helicopter manufacturer Agusta to produce the AB-212 under license. This model, the first examples of which was delivered in 1971, was broadly the same as their American-built counterparts, and were produced for both civilian and military operators. During 1976, the AB-212ASW, an anti-submarine warfare-orientated model, commenced production.
The Bell 412 is a further development of the Bell 212, the major difference being the composite four-blade main rotor. The UH-1N has also been developed into the upgraded, four-blade UH-1Y, which was developed to replace the UH-1N in USMC service.Eden 2004, p. 47.
Design
File:Bell UH-1N Twin Huey 267 (20437038573).jpg
File:Huey Trio UH-1Ns Fly Over Joint Base Andrews, MD, May 10, 2019.jpg
The Bell UH-1N Twin Huey is a twin-engined medium-sized military helicopter primarily operated as a utility transport. Power is provided by a PT6T-3/T400 Turbo Twin Pac, comprising a pair of Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turboshaft engines mounted side by side and driving a shared gearbox and single output shaft. These engines are capable of producing up to 1,342 kW (1,800 shp). In the event of a single power section failing, the remaining section can deliver 671 kW (900 shp) for up to 30 minutes or 571 kW (765 shp) continuously, enabling the UH-1N to maintain cruise performance at maximum weight. It is capable of flight under instrument flight rules and in nighttime conditions.
The UH-1N is often flown with a four-person crew, comprising two pilots and two crew chiefs; while in the air, these crew chiefs man the weapons, while one pilot functions as a navigator and the other actively flies. The interior is normally outfitted with a 15-seat configuration, in which it can be flown by a single pilot and carry up to 14 passengers; in practice, rarely could the UH-1N actually carry this many unless also carrying limited fuel and equipment due to weight limitations and weather conditions. When configured to carry cargo, the cabin has an internal capacity of 220 ft³ (6.23 m³). Up to six litters can be carried in a medical evacuation arrangement. An external load of up to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) can also be carried. In United States Marine Corps (USMC) service, up to three radios would be installed in the cabin so that commanders could remain airborne while coordinating ground troops. The UH-1N was normally armed with a single .50 caliber machine gun on the helicopter's left side, while a 7.62 millimeter machine gun is mounted on the right side.
To improve safety, a high level of redundancy is present across the UH-1N's key systems; these include duplicate hydraulic, electrical, and fuel systems. Fire suppression systems were also installed. The USMC opted to modify a large number of their UH-1Ns with a stability control augmentation system, which provides servo inputs to the rotor head to help stabilize the aircraft during flight. This modification removed the gyroscopic "stabilization bar" on top of the main rotor head, instead relying on the computer system for stability.{{Citation needed|date=June 2022}}
Operational history
File:UH-1N-2.jpg, Florida, 1982]]
File:UH-1N VXE-6 at Marble Point Antarctica 1988.JPEG
File:050908-F-0000S-006 AFSPC UH-1N deployment aids Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.jpg relief efforts]]
File:UH-1N helihoisting at North Field Tinian, during Cope North 2022.jpg
Starting in late 1970, mere months after receiving its first deliveries of the type, the USAF begun to re-equip the 20th Special Operations Squadron in Vietnam with UH-1Ns, supplementing and eventually replacing the single-engined UH-1F and UH-1P.{{cite web |url = https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104464/uh-1n-huey/ |title = UH-1N Huey |publisher = af.mil |access-date = 26 June 2022}} Armed with miniguns (or 40 mm grenade launchers) and rocket pods, and painted camouflage with no US markings and only a Green Hornet insignia, the UH-1N supported Special Forces reconnaissance missions from Cam Ranh Bay.Mutza Air Enthusiast December 1986–April 1987, pp. 30–31.
The first deliveries of the UH-1N to the U.S. Navy and USMC took place in 1971. In total, 205 UH-1Ns would be received, not including six VH-1N executive transports that were used to carry the US president and other high-ranking officials, operated by Marine Helicopter Squadron One. Unlike in the CF, in US service, the UH-1N retained the official name "Iroquois" from the single–engined UH-1 variants, although US service personnel refer to the aircraft as a "Huey" or "Twin Huey".Drendel 1983, p. 9.
In Canadian service, the CH-135 Twin Huey was regularly used as a tactical transport, moving troops and equipment around the forward areas of a combat zone; medevac flights were also conducted. Further activities included VIP transport, search and rescue, and drug interdiction missions. CH-135s were deployed on multiple occasions to support United Nations peacekeeping missions in various regions, including Central America, Somalia, and Haiti.
The Argentine Air Force acquired eight Bell 212s during 1978. During the 1982 Falklands War, Argentina deployed a pair of Bell 212s to the airstrip at Goose Green where they performed general support duties, including the recovery of numerous downed pilots. By the end of the hostilities, both aircraft were still intact and flightworthy, but were captured and dismantled by the British troops.{{cite web |url = http://www.helis.com/database/cn/6524/ |title = H-83 Bell 212 C/N 30834 |publisher = Helis.com |access-date = 10 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018095054/http://www.helis.com/database/cn/6524/ |archive-date = 18 October 2012 |url-status = live}}{{cite web |url = http://www.aeroespacio.com.ar/site/anteriores/538-550/542/site/_05Bell%20212.htm |title = El Bell 212 en la Fuerza Aérea |work = FAA official magazine |access-date = 30 January 2010 |archive-date = 28 October 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081028175607/http://www.aeroespacio.com.ar/site/anteriores/538-550/542/site/_05Bell%20212.htm |url-status = dead }}
USMC UH-1Ns were deployed during the 2003 invasion of Iraq; they were typically used to provide reconnaissance and communications support to ground troops. Multiple UH-1Ns were called upon to provide close air support during heavy fighting in the Battle of Nasiriyah.Stout, Jay A. Hammer from Above, Marine Air Combat Over Iraq. Ballantine Books, 2005. {{ISBN|978-0-89141-871-9}}. In comparison with the Bell AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter, the UH-1N had a wider field of fire with its weapons and thus played a useful role in close combat situations, commonly working in conjunction with Cobras.{{cite web |url = https://www.2ndmaw.marines.mil/News/Article-View/Article/522781/corps-oldest-helo-proves-worth-in-iraq/ |title = Corps' oldest helo proves worth in Iraq |publisher = marines.mil |first = James D. |last = Hamel |date = 18 November 2005}}
The USAF employs the aging UH-1Ns to fulfill its ICBM mission, providing a utility helicopter for transport between bases such as Minot AFB, Francis E. Warren AFB and Malmstrom AFB to missile launch sites in North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Colorado. The UH-1N is also used by the 36th Rescue Squadron (36 RQS) at Fairchild AFB, Washington, for conducting search-and-rescue and medical evacuation missions,{{cite web |url = https://www.dafhistory.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/434078/36-rescue-flight-aetc/ |last1 = Bailey |first1 = Carl E. |title = Factsheet 36 Rescue Squadron (AETC) |date = 2 August 2017 |publisher = Air Force Historical Research Agency |access-date = 17 February 2018}} as well as the 459th Airlift Squadron based at Yokota Air Base in Japan.{{cite web |url = http://www.stripes.com/news/yokota-deems-uh-1n-copters-completely-safe-1.26674 |title = Yokota deems UH-1N copters 'completely safe' |date = 3 December 2004 |publisher = Stars and Stripes |access-date = 6 November 2016 |archive-date = 7 November 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161107015716/http://www.stripes.com/news/yokota-deems-uh-1n-copters-completely-safe-1.26674 |url-status = dead }}
In August 2013, the USAF said they were close to finalizing a plan to sustain and modernize their UH-1Ns for the next six to ten years. It was intended to address flight and safety mandates, investigate modest improvements in capabilities, and reduce capability gaps. While the UH-1N had become one of the oldest platforms operated by the service, retaining it was viewed as having "minimal risk". Fleet-wide upgrades included night vision-compatible cockpit lighting, crash-worthy seats for flight engineers, and installation of a terrain-awareness warning system and traffic collision-avoidance device. The USAF was also in the process of acquiring ex-USMC UH-1Ns, possibly involving as many as 26 helicopters to either add them to USAF's active fleet or keep them in reserve.{{cite web |url = http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20130822/NEWS04/308220019/Air-Force-planning-decade-long-Huey-extension |title = Air Force planning decade-long Huey extension |publisher = Militarytimes.com |date = 22 August 2013 |access-date = 23 August 2013 |archive-date = 22 August 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130822194457/http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20130822/NEWS04/308220019/Air-Force-planning-decade-long-Huey-extension |url-status = dead }}
The UH-1N saw combat service in the Colombian armed conflict. On 16 October 2013, a UH-1N crashed in the northern La Guajira department in a FARC-dominated area.{{cite web |url = http://www.elcolombiano.com/BancoConocimiento/S/se_accidento_helicoptero_en_la_frontera_con_venezuela/se_accidento_helicoptero_en_la_frontera_con_venezuela.asp |title = Se accidentó helicóptero en la frontera con Venezuela |date = 16 October 2013 |publisher = El Colombiano |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131020090315/http://www.elcolombiano.com/BancoConocimiento/S/se_accidento_helicoptero_en_la_frontera_con_venezuela/se_accidento_helicoptero_en_la_frontera_con_venezuela.asp |archive-date = 20 October 2013 |url-status = live}}{{cite web |url = http://www.noticiascaracol.com/nacion/video-265674-doce-soldados-muertos-deja-ataque-de-farc-maicao |title = Doce soldados muertos deja ataque de las FARC en Maicao | Nación |publisher = Noticiascaracol.com |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131025223231/http://www.noticiascaracol.com/nacion/video-265674-doce-soldados-muertos-deja-ataque-de-farc-maicao |archive-date = 25 October 2013 |url-status = live}}{{cite web |url = http://www.caracol.com.co/noticias/actualidad/tres-policias-muertos-en-atentado-de-las-farc-en-maicao/20130102/nota/1835161.aspx |title = Tres policías muertos en atentado de las Farc en Maicao | 20130201 |publisher = Caracol.com.co |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131020065929/http://www.caracol.com.co/noticias/actualidad/tres-policias-muertos-en-atentado-de-las-farc-en-maicao/20130102/nota/1835161.aspx |archive-date = 20 October 2013 |url-status = live}}
The USMC planned to retire the UH-1N by September 2014 after 43 years of service. Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773 was the last Marine squadron operating the type, their last deployment occurring in 2013, when two helicopters sailed on a Royal Netherlands Navy ship for an African Partnership Station deployment. The UH-1N was replaced by the upgraded UH-1Y Venom; ten are remanufactured UH-1N airframes, after which the USMC decided to procure newly built airframes instead. By 2014, five unarmed HH-1Ns remained in use by the USMC until these were also replaced by UH-1Ys and retired in 2015, the only HH-1Ns remaining from 44 that were converted from 38 UH-1Ns and the six VH-1Ns.{{cite web |url = http://seapowermagazine.org/stories/20140804-uh-1n.html |title = Marine Corps to Retire UH-1N Helicopters in September; HH-1Ns in 2015 |work = Seapowermagazine.org |date = 4 August 2014 |access-date = 2 August 2021 |archive-date = 11 August 2014 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20140811234455/http://seapowermagazine.org/stories/20140804-uh-1n.html |url-status = dead }} The final combat deployment of USMC UH-1Ns was to Afghanistan in 2010. The service retired the UH-1N during a "sundown ceremony" at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans on 28 August 2014.{{cite web |url = http://www.marines.mil/News/NewsDisplay/tabid/3258/Article/496683/final-flight-of-huey-for-red-dogs.aspx |title = Final Flight of UH-1N Huey for HMLA-773 |publisher = marines.mil |date = 3 September 2014 |access-date = 7 September 2014 |archive-date = 7 September 2014 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140907052502/http://www.marines.mil/News/NewsDisplay/tabid/3258/Article/496683/final-flight-of-huey-for-red-dogs.aspx |url-status = dead }}{{cite web |url = http://www.janes.com/article/42729/uh-1n-huey-retired-from-usmc-service |title = UH-1N 'Huey' retired from USMC service |first = Gareth |last = Jennings |date = 4 September 2014 |work = IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141206222521/http://www.janes.com/article/42729/uh-1n-huey-retired-from-usmc-service |archive-date = 6 December 2014 |url-status = live}}
By March 2013, the USAF operated 62 UH-1N Twin Hueys, with 25 providing security at ICBM sites, 19 stationed at Joint Base Andrews to evacuate Washington-based government officials in emergencies, and 18 used for testing and training. Since most were purchased in 1969, the USAF had sought a replacement.{{cite web |url = http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/uh-72-lakota-could-be-a-candidate-for-air-force-duty/ |title = UH-72 Lakota Could Be a Candidate for Air Force Duty |publisher = Defensemedianetwork.com |date = 10 March 2013 |access-date = 17 May 2013 |archive-date = 14 May 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130514002704/http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/uh-72-lakota-could-be-a-candidate-for-air-force-duty/ |url-status = dead }} The first requirements were issued in 2007, but the process was repeatedly delayed. On 24 September 2018, the USAF declared a Boeing/Leonardo submission of their MH-139 variant of the AgustaWestland AW139 the winner, beating out the Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin HH-60U Black Hawk and the Sierra Nevada Corporation upgraded UH-60L Force Hawk. Boeing was awarded an initial $375 million contract for four MH-139s, with 84 helicopters planned at a total $2.38 billion program cost. Initial deliveries were planned for 2021.{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-wins-uh-1n-replacement-contract-from-usaf-452150/ |title = Boeing wins UH-1N replacement contract from USAF |publisher = Flight International |date = 25 September 2018 |access-date = 27 September 2018 |archive-date = 25 September 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180925120106/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-wins-uh-1n-replacement-contract-from-usaf-452150/ |url-status = dead }}{{cite web |url = http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2018/September%202018/Boeing-Wins-Contract-to-Build-Huey-Replacement.aspx |title = Boeing Wins Air Force Contract to Build Huey Replacement |work = Air Force Magazine |date = 24 September 2018 |access-date = 27 September 2018 |archive-date = 27 September 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180927124916/http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2018/September%202018/Boeing-Wins-Contract-to-Build-Huey-Replacement.aspx |url-status = dead }}
Variants
=Canadian variants=
File:Bell CH-135 Twin Huey (212), Canada - Air Force AN1345175.jpg
;CUH-1N Twin Huey
:Original Canadian Armed Forces designation for the UH-1N utility transport helicopter.
;{{visible anchor|CH-135 Twin Huey}}
:Canadian version of the UH-1N. Canada purchased 50 CH-135s with deliveries starting in 1971. The aircraft were retired from the Canadian Forces starting in 1996 and struck off strength in December 1999. 41 of the surviving CH-135s were acquired by the US government in December 1999 and transferred to the National Army of Colombia and Colombian National Police. At least one CH-135 was destroyed in combat. 135135 was transferred to the Colombian National Police and flown by the Dirección Antinarcóticos (DIRAN). It was destroyed on the ground by FARC rebels on 18 January 2002, following an incident in which it was forced down by gunfire. Two CH-135s are on display in museums, one at the Canada Aviation Museum in Ottawa and one at the National Air Force Museum of Canada at CFB Trenton.{{cite web |url = http://www.ody.ca/~bwalker/CF_twin_huey.html |title = Canadian Military Aircraft Serial Numbers Canadian Armed Forces CH-135 Twin Huey detailed list |access-date = 2 December 2008 |last = Walker |first = RWR |date = June 2006 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071031100935/http://www.ody.ca/%7Ebwalker/CF_twin_huey.html |archive-date = 31 October 2007 |df = dmy-all}}
{{See also|Bell CH-146 Griffon}}
=U.S. variants=
File:Navy-hh1n-158256-070327-15.jpg
;UH-1N Iroquois
:Initial production model, used by the USAF, USN, and USMC. Over the years, the primary operators, the USMC has developed a number of upgrades for the aircraft including improved avionics, defenses, and a FLIR turret. The USAF planned to replace their UH-1Ns with the Common Vertical Lift Support Platform to support the service's ICBM activities,{{cite web |url = http://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-100128-072.pdf |title = USAF 2011 Budget justification |publisher = saffm.hq.af.mil |page = 4-1 |access-date = 15 July 2010 |archive-date = 4 March 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120304052331/http://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-100128-072.pdf |url-status = dead }} but also examined a life extension for their current fleet.{{cite web |url = http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130821/DEFREG02/308210023/USAF-Planning-Decade-Long-Huey-Extension |archive-url = https://archive.today/20130822154121/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130821/DEFREG02/308210023/USAF-Planning-Decade-Long-Huey-Extension |url-status = dead |archive-date = 22 August 2013 |title = USAF Planning Decade-Long Huey Extension}}
;VH-1N
;HH-1N
:A UH-1N replacement and upgrade as part of the H-1 upgrade program for the USMC, designed to coincide with a similar upgrade for the AH-1W attack helicopter to AH-1Z Viper standard, with common engines and other major systems.
=Thai variants=
;H.6A
:({{langx|th|ฮ.๖ก}}) Royal Thai Armed Forces designation for the UH-1N.{{Cite web |title=Thai Military Aircraft Designations |url=https://designation-systems.net/non-us/thailand.html |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=designation-systems.net}}
=Italian-built variants=
File:Agusta Bell AB 212 spanish navy (cropped+repaired).jpg ]]
;Agusta-Bell AB 212
:Civil or military utility transport version. Built under license in Italy by Agusta.
;Agusta-Bell AB 212EW
:Electronic warfare version for Turkey.
;Agusta-Bell AB 212ASW
:Anti-submarine warfare, anti-shipping version of the AB 212 helicopter, built under license in Italy by Agusta. Operated by the Italian Navy, Hellenic Navy and Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, Peru, Spain, Turkey, and Venezuela.
:The AB 212ASW is a Model 212 Twin Huey with a prominent radome above the cockpit. Early production had a dome-shaped radome, while later production had a flatter "drum" radome. A left side winch is used for dipping the Bendix ASQ-18 sonar. Other changes include structural reinforcement for a gross weight of 11,197 lbs (5080 kg), ECM, shipboard deck tie-down attachments and corrosion protection. Armament is two Mk 44 or Mk 46 torpedoes or two depth charges in the ASW role and four AS.12 air-to-surface wire-guided missiles for the anti-shipping role.Green 1980, p. 229.Wood 1985, p. 490.
Operators
File:Bell UH-1N Twin Huey Users.png
File:AB-212 Unitas 46-05 (cropped).jpg
File:Bangladesh Air Force Bell-212 (3) (cropped).jpg Bell-212s flying in formation over the National parliament of Bangladesh ]]
;{{ANG}}
- National Air Force of Angola{{cite web |url = https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |title = World Air Forces 2018 |publisher = Flightglobal Insight |year = 2018 |access-date = 16 June 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180206123925/https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |archive-date = 6 February 2018 |url-status = live}}
;{{ARG}}
- Argentine Air Force
- 7th Air Brigade - 1st Search and Rescue Squadron
;{{AUT}}
;{{BHR}}
;{{BAN}}
- Bangladesh Air Force
- 9th Squadron "Scorpions" {{Cite web |title = Flying high in Bangladesh |url = https://www.airinternational.com/article/flying-high-bangladesh |url-status = live |website = Air International |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211004081724/https://www.airinternational.com/article/flying-high-bangladesh |archive-date = 4 October 2021 }}
;{{COL}}
File:MIAS 260915 Aeronautica Militare AB212 05.jpg Agusta Bell AB 212 at the 2015 Malta International Airshow]]
;{{GRE}}
;{{GUA}}
;{{IRN}}
;{{ITA}}
- Italian Air Force operates 36 aircraft{{cite web |title=HH.212 |url=http://www.aeronautica.difesa.it/mezzi/mlinea/Pagine/AB212.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227075845/http://www.aeronautica.difesa.it/mezzi/mlinea/Pagine/AB212.aspx |archive-date=27 February 2019 |access-date=22 May 2019 |publisher=Aeronautica Militare}}
- Italian Navy
;{{LBN}}
- Lebanese Air Force 7 aircraft{{Citation needed|date=November 2019}}
File:Agusta-Bell HH-212A ‘MM81161 - 9-61’ (31515970065).jpg
;{{MEX}}
;{{MAR}}
;{{PAN}}
;{{PER}}
;{{SAU}}
File:Bell 212, Spain - Navy JP5939788.jpg
;{{ESP}}
;{{SRI}}
;{{SUD}}
;{{THA}}
;{{TUN}}
File:UH-1N Huey takes off Minot Air Force Base 050902-F-9208L-084.jpg UH-1N takes off from Minot AFB in North Dakota]]
;{{TUR}}
;{{USA}}
;{{URY}}
;{{VEN}}
;{{YEM}}
;{{ZAM}}
=Former operators=
;{{BRN}}
- Royal Brunei Air Force{{cite web |url = http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf |title = World Air Forces 2014 |publisher = Flightglobal Insight |year = 2014 |access-date = 17 January 2014 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131225081256/http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf |archive-date = 25 December 2013 |url-status = live}}
File:Bell CH-135 Twin Huey (212), Canada - Air Force AN1878660.jpg]]
;{{CAN}}
- Canadian Forces{{cite web |url = http://www.canadianwings.com/Aircraft/aircraftDetail.php?TWIN-HUEY-167 |title = Bell CH-135 TWIN HUEY |website = canadianwings.com |access-date = 21 January 2014 |url-status = usurped |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140201184342/http://www.canadianwings.com/Aircraft/aircraftDetail.php?TWIN-HUEY-167 |archive-date = 1 February 2014}}
- 403 Helicopter Operational Training Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=376#s5 |title = 403 Squadron Activated as Operational Training Squadron |date = 24 March 2010 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130420030227/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=376#s5 |archive-date = 20 April 2013}}
- 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=377#s5 |title = 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (THS) History |date = 22 September 2011 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130420030232/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=377#s5 |archive-date = 20 April 2013}}
- 422 Tactical Helicopter Squadron
- 424 Transport & Rescue Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/8w-8e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=664#s3 |title = 424 Squadron History |date = 31 August 2010 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121113222603/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/8w-8e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=664 |archive-date = 13 November 2012}}
- 427 Tactical Helicopter Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=1790 |title = History of 427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron |date = 28 November 2008 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2012 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120902083023/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=1790 |archive-date = 2 September 2012}}
- 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=379 |title = 430 Squadron |date = 28 November 2008 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2012 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130522200604/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/1w-1e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=379 |archive-date = 22 May 2013}}
- 444 Combat Support Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/5w-5e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=585#s3 |title = 444 Squadron History |date = 11 April 2012 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2012 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120929103448/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/5w-5e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=585 |archive-date = 29 September 2012}}
- VU 32 - pre-Unification Royal Canadian Navy Utility Squadron{{cite web |url = http://www.canadianwings.com/Squadrons/squadronDetail.php?Utility-Squadron-VU-32-107 |title = Utility Squadron VU 32 |year = 2012 |work = AEROWAREdesigns |access-date = 10 January 2013 |url-status = usurped |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120806145622/http://www.canadianwings.com/Squadrons/squadronDetail.php?Utility-Squadron-VU-32-107 |archive-date = 6 August 2012}}
- Aerospace Engineering Test EstablishmentShaw 1990, p. 86.
- Base Flight Cold Lake{{cite web |url = http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/4w-4e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=481#s4 |title = 417 Combat Support Squadron - History |date = 3 April 2012 |work = Air Force Public Affairs / Department of National Defence |access-date = 10 January 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121113222631/http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/4w-4e/sqns-escs/page-eng.asp?id=481 |archive-date = 13 November 2012}}
- Base Rescue Goose Bay
File:Navy-hh1n-158256-070327-12-10.jpg HH-1N from NAS China Lake at the Mojave Spaceport ]]
;{{GUY}}
- Guyana Defence Force{{Citation needed|date=February 2021}}
;{{flaglist|Israel}}
- Israeli Air Force{{cite web |url = http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/waf/aa-mideast/israel/af/types/bell1.htm |title = Israel Air Force - Aircraft Types |publisher = aeroflight.com |access-date = 22 January 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100303225951/http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/waf/aa-mideast/israel/af/types/bell1.htm |archive-date = 3 March 2010 |url-status = live}}
;{{JAM}}
- Jamaica Defence Force{{cite web |url = http://www.jdfmil.org/equipment/aircraft/aircraft_home.php |title = Jamaica Defence Force Aircraft |publisher = jdfmil.org |access-date = 26 January 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130511034946/http://www.jdfmil.org/equipment/aircraft/aircraft_home.php |archive-date = 11 May 2013 |url-status = usurped}}
;{{PHI}}
- Philippine Air Force - 4 Units delivered to 250th Presidential Airlift Wing ,251 Special Airlift Squadron. Retired. {{cite web | url=https://www.scramble.nl/planning/orbats/philippines/philippine-air-force-history | title=Orbats }}
;{{SIN}}
- Republic of Singapore Air Force{{cite web |url = http://www.mindef.gov.sg/safti/pointer/back/suppleme/1999/Sep/1.htm |title = 30 Years of Helicopter Operations |publisher = mindef.gov.sg |access-date = 22 January 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130729005106/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/safti/pointer/back/suppleme/1999/Sep/1.htm |archive-date = 29 July 2013}}
;{{UK}}
;{{USA}}
- United States Marine Corps{{cite web |url = http://helihub.com/2014/09/04/final-flight-of-uh-1n-huey-for-hmla-773/ |title = Final Flight of UH-1N Huey for HMLA-773 |publisher = helihub.com |access-date = 3 September 2014 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140907074606/http://helihub.com/2014/09/04/final-flight-of-uh-1n-huey-for-hmla-773/ |archive-date = 7 September 2014 |url-status = live}}AirForces Monthly p. 14 January 2014
- United States Navy{{cite web |url = http://www.ktvn.com/global/story.asp?s=10128650&ClientType=Printable |title = "Huey" Helicopters Fly Final Flights for the U.S. Navy |publisher = ktvn.com |date = 6 April 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150925104131/http://www.ktvn.com/global/story.asp?s=10128650&ClientType=Printable |archive-date = 25 September 2015 |url-status = live}}
Aircraft on display
- Battleship Memorial Park, Mobile, Alabama, U.S.{{cite web |url = http://www.ussalabama.com/aircraft.php |title = Aircraft collection |publisher = ussalabama.com |access-date = 25 June 2022 |archive-date = 4 September 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120904084729/http://www.ussalabama.com/aircraft.php |url-status = dead }}
- CH-135 135114 - Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada{{cite web |url = https://ingeniumcanada.org/ingenium/collection-research/collection-item.php?id=1998.0851.001 |title = Bell CH-135 "Twin Huey" |editor = Canada Aviation and Space Museum |editor-link = Canada Aviation and Space Museum |year = 2018 |access-date = 9 August 2018|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210226190449/https://ingeniumcanada.org/ingenium/collection-research/collection-item.php?id=1998.0851.001|archive-date= 26 February 2021|url-status= dead}}
- CH-135 135102 - National Air Force Museum of Canada{{Cite web |url = http://airforcemuseum.ca/eng/?page_id=617 |title = Twin Huey |work = National Air Force Museum of Canada |language = en-CA |access-date = 7 March 2020}}
- UH-1N 159198 – Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California.{{cite web|url= https://flyingleathernecks.org/project/bell-uh-1n-huey-iroquois-helicopter/|title= Bell UH-1N|access-date= 25 June 2022|author= Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum|author-link= Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum|work= flyingleathernecks.org|year= 2022|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220412191110/https://flyingleathernecks.org/project/bell-uh-1n-huey-iroquois-helicopter/|archive-date= 12 April 2022|url-status= live}}
Specifications (USMC UH-1N, as modified)
File:Bell UH-1N Iroquois 3-view line drawing.png
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= USMC UH-1N Fact Sheet,{{cite web |url = http://hqinet001.hqmc.usmc.mil/AVN/documents/aircraft/rotarywing/uh1.htm |title = USMC UH-1N fact sheet |access-date = 14 October 2012 |publisher = United States Marine Corps |date = 4 September 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070616165120/http://hqinet001.hqmc.usmc.mil/AVN/documents/aircraft/rotarywing/uh1.htm |archive-date = 16 June 2007}} The International Directory of Military Aircraft, 2002-2003Frawley 2002, p. 33.
|prime units?= kts
|crew= 4 (pilot, co-pilot, crew chief, gunner)
|capacity= 6–8 combat-equipped troops, or {{cvt|4400|lb|0}} equivalent cargo
|length ft= 57
|length in= 8
|length note=
|width ft=
|width in=
|width note=
|height ft= 14
|height in= 5
|height note=
|empty weight lb=
|empty weight note=
|gross weight lb=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight lb=10500
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
|eng1 number= 1
|eng1 name= Pratt & Whitney Canada T400-CP-400
|eng1 type= coupled turboshaft engine
|eng1 shp= 1,250
|eng1 note=
::::{{cvt|900|shp|0}} emergency rating for each power section
|rot number= 1
|rot dia ft= 48
|rot dia in= 0
|rot area sqft= 1,808
|rot area note=
- Blade section: - root: NACA 0010.8; tip: NACA 0005.4 mod{{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}}
|max speed kts= 130
|max speed note=
|cruise speed kts= 110
|cruise speed note=
|never exceed speed kts=
|never exceed speed note=
|range nmi= 248
|range note=
|combat range nmi=
|combat range note=
|ferry range nmi=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=
|ceiling ft= 17,300
|ceiling note=
|climb rate ftmin= 1,755
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|disk loading lb/sqft=
|disk loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass=
|more performance=
|armament=
- {{convert|2.75|in|mm|adj=on}} rocket pods,
- 0.50 in (12.7 mm) GAU-16 machine gun,
- 7.62 mm (0.308 in) GAU-17 minigun or 7.62 mm (0.308 in) M240 lightweight machine gun
|avionics=
}}
Gallery
BellCH-135TwinHuey135102.JPG|CH-135 Twin Huey 135102 serving with the Multinational Force and Observers Sinai, Egypt, 1989.
BellCH-135TwinHuey135137.JPG|CH-135 Twin Huey 135137 in the original blue-gray and green camouflage pattern worn by these aircraft prior to 1986/88.
BellCH135135TwinHuey.JPG|CH-135 Twin Huey 135135 in the early-style SAR markings, 1988. This aircraft was serving with Base Rescue Goose Bay and had formerly been assigned to 424 Transport & Rescue Squadron, CFB Trenton.
BellCH-135TwinHuey135127.JPG|CH-135 Twin Huey 135127 from Base Rescue Goose Bay in the later SAR scheme used after 1986–88.
BellCH-135TwinHuey135103A.JPG|CH-135 Twin Huey 135103 in special flight test markings. The aircraft was used by the Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment at CFB Cold Lake, 1987.
BellCH-135TwinHuey135103B.JPG |CH-135 Twin Huey 135103 after repainting in anti-IR olive and green scheme
En-MFO1.JPG |Canadian CH-135 Twin Hueys serving with the Multinational Force and Observers Sinai, Egypt 1989
CH135TwinHueyBadge.JPG|CH-135 Twin Huey badge worn by some Canadian Forces air and ground crew, 1980s
408UTTHFltBadge.JPG|408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron UTTH Flight badge worn by CH-135 Twin Huey crews circa 1990. The badge is based on the shield of the province of Alberta.
Bell UH-1N Iroquois (212), USA - Air Force AN1269283.jpg|UH-1N serving with the 1st Helicopter Squadron at Joint Base Andrews.
See also
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
|related=
|similar aircraft=
|lists=
}}
References
=Citations=
{{Reflist|30em}}
=Bibliography=
- Chant, Christopher. Fighting Helicopters of the 20th Century. Graham Beehag Books, Christchurch, Dorset, England, 1996.
- Debay, Yves. Combat Helicopters. France: Histoire & Collections, 1996.
- Drendel, Lou. Huey. Squadron/Signal Publications, Carrollton, Texas, 1983. {{ISBN|0-89747-145-8}}.
- Eden, Paul. "Bell 212/412". Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft. London: Amber Books, 2004. {{ISBN|1-904687-84-9}}.
- Francillon, Rene, J. Vietnam: The War in the Air, New York: Arch Cape Press, 1987.
- Frawley, Gerard. The International Directory of Military Aircraft, Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd, 2002. {{ISBN|1-875671-55-2}}.
- Green, William. Observers Aircraft, Frederick Warne Publishing, 1980. {{ISBN|0-7232-1604-5}}.
- Hoyle, Craig. "World Air Forces Directory". Flight International, Vol. 182, No. 5370. pp. 40–64. ISSN 0015-3710.
- Mesko, Jim, Airmobile: The Helicopter War in Vietnam. Squadron Signal Publications, 1984.
- Mutza, Wayne. "Covertly to Cambodia". Air Enthusiast, Thirty-two, December 1986–April 1987. pp. 22–31. ISSN 0143-5450.
- Mutza, Wayne. UH-1 Huey in action. Carrollton, TX: Squadron/Signal Publications, 1986. {{ISBN|0-89747-179-2}}.
- Mutza, Wayne. UH-1 Huey in Colors. Carrollton, TX: Squadron/Signal Publications, 1992. {{ISBN|0-89747-279-9}}.
- Shaw, Robbie: Superbase 18 Cold Lake- Canada's Northern Guardians, Osprey Publishing, London, 1990. {{ISBN|0-85045-910-9}}
- [http://www.airliners.net/info/stats.main?id=73 Specifications for 204, 205 and 214 Huey Plus]
- Wood, Derek. Jane's World Aircraft Recognition Handbook, Jane's Publishing Company 1985. {{ISBN|0-7106-0343-6}}.
External links
{{Commons|UH-1 Twin Huey}}
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20050527203458/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=100&ct=1 UH-1N page] and [https://web.archive.org/web/19970206100210/http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/ah1.htm UH-1 Huey history page on US Navy site]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20100409235834/http://www.af.mil/information/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=130 UH-1N Huey fact sheet on USAF site]
- [http://www.airvectors.net/avhuey_2.html The Bell UH-1N Huey at Greg Goebel's AIR VECTORS]
{{Bell Aircraft}}
{{Huey family}}
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|1={{US helicopters}}
|2={{Canadian Forces aircraft}}
|3={{Italian military aircraft}}
|4={{Italian Army helicopter designations}}
|5={{Thai helicopter designations}}
|6={{Spanish helicopters}}
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Category:1960s United States military utility aircraft
Category:Search and rescue helicopters
Category:1960s United States helicopters
Category:Twin-turbine helicopters
Category:Aircraft first flown in 1969