The Comanche is a twin-turbine, two-seat (tandem) armed reconnaissance helicopter with projected missions of armed reconnaissance, light attack and air combat. Initial operating capability is set for the year 2006. It will replace obsolete AH-1 and OH-58 attack and observation helicopters. The RAH-66 incorporates stealth technology by housing all weapons inside weapons bays on the sides of the helicopter. The first RAH-66 took its first flight on January 4, 1996 at West Palm Beach in Florida.
Primary Function: Scout Helicopter
Contractor: Boeing Helicopter Company and Sikorsky Aircraft Division (joint venture)
Crew: Two
Unit Cost: N/A
Powerplant
Two T800 1,440 SHP gas turbine engines 5-blade main rotor Fantail anti-torque
Dimensions
Length: 46.78 feet (rotor turning)
Width: 39.04 feet (rotor turning)
Height: 11.0 feet (overall)
Weights
Empty: 7,765 pounds
Combat Mission: 10,600 pounds
Performance
Speed: 330 km/hr / 172 knots - Dash speed
310 km/hr / 161 knots - Cruise speed
Ceiling: N/A
Range: 262 nm Max Range (internal fuel)
1,260 nm self-deployment range
Armament
Air-to-air Stinger
Hellfire
20mm three-barrel turreted gun
Hydra-70 rockets
