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RAH-66 Comanche

The RAH-66 "Comanche" is the worlds first stealth helicopter. Developed by the Boeing-Sikorsky group the Comanche is termed as a breakthrough in the field of helicopters. The first flight of the RAH-66 took place in 1996. The Comanche is designed to be reconaissance and attack helicopter. Though the Comanche cannot be compared to the AH-64D "Longbow Apache" or the famous Ka-50 "Black Shark" it will be primarily used to take out low concentrations of targets with extreme efficiency and surprise.

The RAH-66 is expected to enter service in 2006. This helicopter is the first type in the world which can detect the presence of biological and chemical weapons in the atmosphere.

Design

The Comanche is designed under a very tough scenario. Making a stealth helicopter is tougher than making a stealth fighter. The main obstacle with the designers was the main rotor and the tail rotor which make much noise as well as give a good radar signature. The tail rotor is merged into the tail section of the Comanche thus reducing the radar signature. The design of the Comanche also makes it more silent than the Apache. The RAH-66 can also withstand enemy rounds effectly with its armoured body.

Cockpit

The pilot and the gunner(co-pilot) of the RAH-66 are placed in a cockpit pressurised and sealed to protect it from chemical and biological warfare agents. The pilot and the gunner has access to the world's best fire control, recon and navigation systems in the cockpit of the RAH-66. The crew are also equipped with night vision. Helmet mountes sight and colour LCD MFDs. The crew of the Comanche has more situational awareness than in any other helicopter in the world. These advanced systems allow the RAH-66 to work in perfect team work during recon missions. The Comanche is also equipped with a FLIR and TV targeting sensors.

The Comanche has a vast array of sensors which provide mission commanders in the ground to have live data regarding the situation in the battle field. This can make a diference between a decisive victory or a shameful defeat. The systems onboard the RAH-66 makes it the first attack helicopter of the information erra. In today's battlefield wars are won with information more than weapons.

The Comanche also has electronica warfare systems and countremeasures. The systems also include ECM, warning devices and IR and radar counter measures.

Engines

The RAH-66 is equipped with two T-800-LHT-801 turboshaft engines. These engines are specially designed for a reduced IR signature. The engines are developed by LHTec and has a maximum power of 1,563 shp each.

Weapons

The Comanche, to remain more stealthy carries an internal load of weapons. The doors open just in the last moment before the weapon is launched. The weapon's inventory of the Comanche include air-to-air missiles, anti-tank missiles, rockets of all types. The comanche can also be fitted with external pylons. It also carries a 20mm three barelled gatling gun with 500 rounds of ammo. The gun is developed by GE and is mounted at the nose of the helicopter.

Technical Specifications
Length	46.85 ft
Height	11.06 ft
Main rotor blades	8
Main rotor blades	8
Max Speed	172 knots
Cruise Speed	161 knots
Rate of climb	850 ft/min
RangeMax	1,206 nautical miles
Weight	8,690 pounds