Airbus Helicopters EC665, previously called Eurocopter EC665 Tiger, is a multirole combat helicopter manufactured by Airbus Helicopters. It was developed and produced in a joint venture between France and Germany, with Spain joining later on. The EC665 Tiger is primarily designed for combat missions, including anti-tank warfare, close air support, armed reconnaissance, and anti-ship warfare. It features advanced avionics and weapons systems, making it a formidable combat platform.
The EC665 Tiger has a sleek and distinctive design, with a tandem cockpit layout and a fenestron tail rotor. It is powered by two MTR390 turboshaft engines, providing it with excellent performance and maneuverability. The helicopter is equipped with a wide range of weapons, including air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and cannons, giving it the flexibility to engage a variety of targets. Additionally, its advanced sensors and mission systems allow for precise targeting and situational awareness, making it highly effective in complex combat environments.
The EC665 Tiger has been used by several countries, including France, Germany, Spain, and Australia. It has a proven track record in combat operations, having been deployed in Afghanistan, Libya, and Mali. The helicopter has received praise for its versatility, firepower, and survivability, making it a valuable asset for modern militaries.
AIRBUS HELICOPTERS EC-665 Specs
The Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is a multirole combat helicopter known for its exceptional specifications and capabilities. Here are eight key aspects that highlight its significance:
- Tandem Cockpit: Enhanced situational awareness and mission coordination.
- Fenestron Tail Rotor: Reduced noise and improved safety.
- MTR390 Engines: Excellent performance and maneuverability.
- Advanced Avionics: Precise targeting and mission management.
- Air-to-Ground Missiles: Effective anti-tank and precision strike capabilities.
- Rockets and Cannons: Versatile armament for various combat scenarios.
- Advanced Sensors: Enhanced target detection and situational awareness.
- Proven Track Record: Successful deployment in combat operations.
These key aspects combine to make the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger a formidable combat platform. Its tandem cockpit layout provides excellent visibility and coordination for the crew. The fenestron tail rotor reduces noise and improves safety, while the powerful MTR390 engines ensure exceptional performance and maneuverability. The advanced avionics suite allows for precise targeting and mission management, while the diverse armament options make the helicopter adaptable to various combat roles. Furthermore, its advanced sensors enhance target detection and situational awareness, and its proven track record in combat operations demonstrates its reliability and effectiveness.
Tandem Cockpit
The tandem cockpit layout of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is a key feature that contributes to its exceptional capabilities and mission effectiveness. In a tandem cockpit, the pilot and co-pilot are seated one behind the other, providing several advantages.
Firstly, the tandem cockpit enhances situational awareness by giving both crew members an unobstructed view of the surroundings. This is particularly important in combat situations, where the ability to quickly identify and respond to threats is crucial. The pilot has a clear view forward, while the co-pilot can monitor the airspace above and behind the helicopter, providing a 360-degree field of vision.
Secondly, the tandem cockpit facilitates efficient mission coordination. The close proximity of the crew members allows for effective communication and coordination, enabling them to make quick decisions and respond swiftly to changing situations. The pilot can focus on flying the helicopter, while the co-pilot can manage the weapons systems and other mission-critical tasks.
The tandem cockpit layout has proven its effectiveness in various real-life combat operations. For instance, during the 2011 Libyan Civil War, EC665 Tigers played a crucial role in supporting ground troops and conducting precision strikes. The tandem cockpit allowed the crews to maintain excellent situational awareness and coordinate their actions effectively, contributing to the mission’s success.
In summary, the tandem cockpit layout of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is a significant factor in its overall capabilities. It enhances situational awareness, facilitates mission coordination, and contributes to the helicopter’s effectiveness in combat operations.
Fenestron Tail Rotor
The fenestron tail rotor is a key feature of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger that contributes to its overall performance and safety. Unlike conventional tail rotors, which are exposed and can generate significant noise, the fenestron tail rotor is enclosed within the tail boom, resulting in several advantages.
- Reduced Noise: The enclosed design of the fenestron tail rotor significantly reduces noise levels compared to conventional tail rotors. This is particularly beneficial in urban environments or during covert operations, where noise reduction is crucial. Reduced noise levels also enhance the comfort of the crew and passengers.
- Improved Safety: The enclosed fenestron tail rotor eliminates the risk of ground personnel or objects coming into contact with the rotating blades. This greatly improves safety during ground operations, maintenance, and in confined spaces. The fenestron’s enclosed design also reduces the risk of damage to the tail rotor from external factors, such as debris or enemy fire.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: The fenestron tail rotor’s enclosed design provides greater protection from crosswinds and other aerodynamic disturbances. This enhances the helicopter’s maneuverability and stability, especially at low speeds and during hovering.
- Reduced Maintenance: The enclosed fenestron tail rotor requires less maintenance compared to conventional tail rotors. The enclosed design protects the blades from external elements, reducing wear and tear. This results in lower maintenance costs and increased operational availability.
The fenestron tail rotor’s combination of reduced noise, improved safety, enhanced maneuverability, and reduced maintenance makes it an essential feature of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger. It contributes to the helicopter’s overall effectiveness in various missions, including combat operations, search and rescue, and law enforcement.
MTR390 Engines
The MTR390 engines are a crucial component of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger, contributing significantly to its exceptional performance and maneuverability. These engines provide the helicopter with the necessary power and agility to excel in various combat and operational scenarios.
The MTR390 engines are twin turboshaft engines that deliver a combined power output of 2,500 shaft horsepower. This power enables the EC665 Tiger to achieve a maximum speed of 330 kilometers per hour (205 miles per hour) and a climb rate of over 10 meters per second (33 feet per second). The engines’ excellent power-to-weight ratio gives the helicopter impressive acceleration and agility, allowing it to perform quick maneuvers and respond swiftly to changing combat situations.
In real-life operations, the MTR390 engines have proven their reliability and performance. For instance, during the 2013 Serval Operation in Mali, EC665 Tigers played a vital role in providing air support to French ground forces. The helicopters’ powerful engines enabled them to operate effectively in the harsh Saharan environment, performing reconnaissance, close air support, and anti-tank missions.
Furthermore, the MTR390 engines’ advanced design incorporates features that enhance the helicopter’s survivability and maintainability. The engines are equipped with a dual-channel FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system that provides precise control and monitoring of engine parameters. This system ensures optimal engine performance and reduces the risk of engine failure. Additionally, the modular design of the engines facilitates maintenance and repairs, reducing downtime and increasing operational readiness.
In summary, the MTR390 engines are a key component of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger, providing the helicopter with excellent performance and maneuverability. These engines empower the EC665 Tiger to excel in combat missions, delivering exceptional agility, power, and reliability, making it a formidable platform for modern warfare.
Advanced Avionics
The Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is equipped with advanced avionics that play a vital role in enhancing its targeting and mission management capabilities. These avionics systems provide the crew with a comprehensive suite of tools to effectively plan, execute, and monitor missions, ensuring precision and efficiency.
One of the key components of the EC665 Tiger’s avionics is its mission computer. This computer serves as the central hub for mission planning and management. It allows the crew to input mission parameters, including target coordinates, flight paths, and weapon selection. The mission computer then processes this information and generates optimal flight profiles and weapon release points, taking into account factors such as wind speed, terrain, and target movement.
The EC665 Tiger’s avionics also include advanced navigation and targeting systems. These systems provide the crew with real-time situational awareness and precise target identification. The helicopter is equipped with a variety of sensors, including forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and laser rangefinders, which allow the crew to detect and track targets in all weather conditions, day or night.
The integration of these advanced avionics systems enables the EC665 Tiger crew to perform complex missions with a high degree of accuracy and effectiveness. For instance, during the 2011 Libyan Civil War, EC665 Tigers played a crucial role in supporting ground troops and conducting precision strikes against enemy targets. The advanced avionics allowed the crews to quickly identify and engage targets, even in challenging urban environments.
In summary, the advanced avionics of the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger are a critical component of its overall capabilities. These systems provide the crew with precise targeting and mission management tools, enabling them to effectively plan, execute, and monitor missions, even in complex and demanding operational environments.
Air-to-Ground Missiles
The Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is equipped with a range of air-to-ground missiles, significantly enhancing its anti-tank and precision strike capabilities. These missiles provide the helicopter with the ability to engage and destroy ground targets with pinpoint accuracy, making it a formidable platform for modern warfare.
The EC665 Tiger can be armed with various air-to-ground missiles, including the AGM-114 Hellfire, PARS 3 LR, and Spike-ER. These missiles offer different capabilities and ranges, allowing the helicopter to adapt to various combat scenarios and target profiles. For instance, the AGM-114 Hellfire is a laser-guided missile with a range of 8 kilometers (5 miles), making it ideal for engaging armored vehicles and other high-value targets. The PARS 3 LR is a fire-and-forget missile with a range of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles), providing the EC665 Tiger with a standoff capability against heavily defended targets.
The integration of air-to-ground missiles on the EC665 Tiger has proven its effectiveness in real-life combat operations. During the 2003 Iraq War, EC665 Tigers played a vital role in supporting ground troops and destroying enemy armor. The helicopters’ precision strike capabilities enabled them to effectively engage and eliminate Iraqi tanks and other armored vehicles, contributing to the overall success of the operation.
In summary, the air-to-ground missiles equipped on the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger are a crucial component of its capabilities, providing the helicopter with effective anti-tank and precision strike capabilities. These missiles allow the EC665 Tiger to engage and destroy ground targets with pinpoint accuracy, making it a versatile and formidable platform for modern warfare.
Rockets and Cannons
The Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is equipped with a variety of rockets and cannons, providing it with a versatile armament capable of engaging a wide range of targets in various combat scenarios. This armament is an integral component of the EC665 Tiger’s overall capabilities, contributing to its effectiveness in modern warfare.
The EC665 Tiger can be armed with a variety of rockets, including 70mm Hydra rockets and 127mm LAU-7 rockets. These rockets are unguided and provide the helicopter with a high volume of fire for suppressing enemy positions, destroying lightly armored vehicles, and engaging infantry. Additionally, the EC665 Tiger can be equipped with a 30mm cannon, which is effective against ground targets and can also be used for air-to-air combat.
The combination of rockets and cannons provides the EC665 Tiger with the flexibility to adapt to different combat scenarios. For instance, during the 2011 Libyan Civil War, EC665 Tigers were used to support ground troops and attack enemy positions. The helicopters’ rockets were effective in suppressing enemy fire and destroying lightly armored vehicles, while the cannons were used to engage enemy personnel and fortifications. In another instance, during the 2013 Serval Operation in Mali, EC665 Tigers were used to provide close air support to French ground forces. The helicopters’ rockets and cannons were instrumental in destroying enemy vehicles and positions, contributing to the success of the operation.
In summary, the rockets and cannons equipped on the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger are a crucial component of its capabilities, providing the helicopter with a versatile armament for various combat scenarios. This armament allows the EC665 Tiger to effectively engage and destroy a wide range of targets, making it a formidable platform for modern warfare.
Advanced Sensors
The Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger is equipped with a suite of advanced sensors that significantly enhance its target detection and situational awareness capabilities. These sensors provide the crew with a comprehensive picture of the surrounding environment, enabling them to make informed decisions and respond swiftly to evolving threats.
One of the key sensors on the EC665 Tiger is the forward-looking infrared (FLIR) system. This system detects heat signatures, allowing the crew to identify and track targets in low-light conditions or through obscurants such as smoke or fog. The FLIR system is particularly effective for detecting camouflaged targets or targets hidden in dense vegetation.
In addition to the FLIR system, the EC665 Tiger is also equipped with a laser rangefinder and a laser designator. The laser rangefinder provides precise distance measurements to targets, while the laser designator can mark targets for laser-guided weapons. These sensors work together to provide the crew with accurate targeting information, enabling them to engage targets with pinpoint accuracy.
The integration of advanced sensors on the EC665 Tiger has proven its effectiveness in real-life combat operations. For instance, during the 2011 Libyan Civil War, EC665 Tigers played a vital role in supporting ground troops and conducting precision strikes against enemy targets. The helicopters’ advanced sensors allowed the crews to quickly identify and engage targets, even in challenging urban environments.
In summary, the advanced sensors equipped on the Airbus Helicopters EC665 Tiger are a critical component of its capabilities, providing the helicopter with enhanced target detection and situational awareness. These sensors enable the crew to effectively identify, track, and engage targets in a variety of operational environments, making the EC665 Tiger a formidable platform for modern warfare.
Proven Track Record
The proven track record of successful deployment in combat operations is a crucial component of the Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Specs. It underscores the helicopter’s reliability, effectiveness, and adaptability in real-world combat scenarios. The EC-665 Tiger has been used by several countries in various conflicts, including the 2011 Libyan Civil War, the 2013 Serval Operation in Mali, and the ongoing fight against terrorism in the Middle East.
The EC-665 Tiger’s successful combat record can be attributed to its exceptional specifications. The helicopter’s tandem cockpit layout provides excellent situational awareness for the crew, while the fenestron tail rotor reduces noise and improves safety. The MTR390 engines provide excellent performance and maneuverability, while the advanced avionics suite enhances targeting and mission management. Additionally, the EC-665 Tiger’s diverse armament options, including air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and cannons, make it adaptable to a wide range of combat roles.
The EC-665 Tiger’s proven track record in combat operations highlights its value as a formidable combat platform. Its successful deployment in various conflicts demonstrates its ability to meet the demands of modern warfare. This proven track record is a testament to the helicopter’s exceptional design, engineering, and capabilities.
FAQs on Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Specs
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Airbus Helicopters EC-665, addressing common concerns or misconceptions. These FAQs aim to provide comprehensive information about the helicopter’s specifications and capabilities.
Question 1: What are the key features of the EC-665 Tiger’s design?
The EC-665 Tiger is known for its distinctive design, which includes a tandem cockpit layout, a fenestron tail rotor, and a sleek, agile airframe. The tandem cockpit provides excellent visibility and situational awareness for both the pilot and co-pilot. The fenestron tail rotor reduces noise and enhances safety, while the airframe is designed for high performance and maneuverability.
Question 2: What are the capabilities of the EC-665 Tiger’s avionics systems?
The EC-665 Tiger is equipped with advanced avionics systems that provide comprehensive mission management and targeting capabilities. These systems include a mission computer, navigation and targeting systems, and a variety of sensors. The mission computer allows for precise planning and execution of missions, while the navigation and targeting systems provide accurate target identification and tracking. The sensors, which include forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and laser rangefinders, enhance situational awareness and enable the helicopter to operate effectively in various conditions.
Question 3: What armament options are available for the EC-665 Tiger?
The EC-665 Tiger is equipped with a diverse range of armament options, including air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and cannons. These armament options provide the helicopter with the flexibility to adapt to different combat roles. Air-to-ground missiles, such as the AGM-114 Hellfire and PARS 3 LR, offer precision strike capabilities against armored vehicles and other targets. Rockets, such as the 70mm Hydra rockets and 127mm LAU-7 rockets, provide high volumes of fire for suppressing enemy positions and engaging infantry. The 30mm cannon is effective against ground targets and can also be used for air-to-air combat.
Question 4: What are the advantages of the EC-665 Tiger’s tandem cockpit layout?
The tandem cockpit layout of the EC-665 Tiger provides several advantages. It offers excellent visibility and situational awareness for both the pilot and co-pilot, allowing them to effectively monitor the surroundings and respond quickly to threats. Additionally, the tandem cockpit facilitates efficient mission coordination, as the pilot and co-pilot can easily communicate and collaborate during operations.
Question 5: How does the EC-665 Tiger’s fenestron tail rotor contribute to its capabilities?
The fenestron tail rotor of the EC-665 Tiger offers several benefits. It reduces noise levels, making the helicopter less detectable and suitable for covert operations. The enclosed design of the fenestron tail rotor also enhances safety by eliminating the risk of ground personnel or objects coming into contact with the rotating blades. Additionally, the fenestron tail rotor improves maneuverability, especially at low speeds and during hovering, making the EC-665 Tiger more agile and responsive in confined spaces.
Question 6: What is the significance of the EC-665 Tiger’s proven track record in combat operations?
The EC-665 Tiger’s successful deployment in combat operations underscores its reliability, effectiveness, and adaptability in real-world scenarios. The helicopter has been used by several countries in various conflicts, including the 2011 Libyan Civil War, the 2013 Serval Operation in Mali, and the ongoing fight against terrorism in the Middle East. Its proven track record demonstrates the EC-665 Tiger’s ability to meet the demands of modern warfare and perform effectively in challenging operational environments.
Summary: The Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Tiger is a combat helicopter with exceptional specifications and capabilities. Its tandem cockpit layout, fenestron tail rotor, advanced avionics systems, and diverse armament options make it a formidable platform for various combat roles. The EC-665 Tiger’s proven track record in combat operations further highlights its value and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Transition to the next article section: This concludes the FAQs on Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Specs. For more detailed information on the helicopter’s design, performance, and operational history, please refer to the following sections.
Tips on Utilizing Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Specs
The Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Tiger is a highly capable combat helicopter with a wide range of specifications and features. By understanding and effectively utilizing these specifications, pilots and operators can maximize the helicopter’s performance and capabilities in various mission scenarios.
Tip 1: Leverage the Advantages of the Tandem Cockpit Layout
The EC-665 Tiger’s tandem cockpit layout provides exceptional visibility and situational awareness. Pilots should fully utilize this advantage by maintaining constant communication and coordinating their roles effectively. This coordination enhances mission coordination and enables the crew to respond swiftly to changing conditions.
Tip 2: Optimize Fenestron Tail Rotor Capabilities
The fenestron tail rotor significantly reduces noise and improves safety. Pilots should take advantage of these benefits by operating in noise-sensitive areas and utilizing the helicopter’s agility in confined spaces. The enclosed design of the fenestron tail rotor also enhances ground safety, allowing for safer operations near personnel and obstacles.
Tip 3: Utilize Advanced Avionics Systems Effectively
The EC-665 Tiger’s advanced avionics systems provide comprehensive mission management and targeting capabilities. Pilots should undergo thorough training to master these systems and fully leverage their potential. Effective use of the mission computer, navigation and targeting systems, and sensors enhances situational awareness, improves target identification, and enables precise execution of missions.
Tip 4: Maximize Armament Options for Mission Flexibility
The EC-665 Tiger’s diverse armament options provide mission flexibility. Pilots should carefully select and configure the armament based on the specific mission requirements. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of each armament type allows for effective engagement of various targets, including armored vehicles, infantry, and air-to-air threats.
Tip 5: Exploit the Helicopter’s Agility and Maneuverability
The EC-665 Tiger’s exceptional agility and maneuverability make it ideal for complex combat scenarios. Pilots should practice and master advanced flight techniques to fully exploit the helicopter’s capabilities. This includes performing rapid maneuvers, utilizing the helicopter’s low-speed handling characteristics, and operating effectively in confined spaces.
Summary: By following these tips, pilots and operators can effectively utilize the Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Tiger’s specifications to maximize its performance and capabilities in various mission scenarios. Understanding and leveraging the helicopter’s design features, advanced systems, and armament options enable crews to operate safely, efficiently, and effectively in demanding combat environments.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: These tips provide a foundation for maximizing the potential of the EC-665 Tiger. For further insights and detailed information on the helicopter’s specifications and capabilities, please refer to the following sections.
Conclusion
The Airbus Helicopters EC-665 Tiger is a combat helicopter renowned for its exceptional specifications and capabilities. Its tandem cockpit layout, fenestron tail rotor, advanced avionics systems, and diverse armament options make it a formidable platform for various mission roles. The helicopter’s successful deployment in combat operations further underscores its reliability and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Understanding and effectively utilizing the EC-665 Tiger’s specifications is crucial for maximizing its performance and capabilities. By leveraging the advantages of its design features, advanced systems, and armament options, pilots and operators can operate safely, efficiently, and effectively in demanding combat environments. The EC-665 Tiger’s exceptional specifications and capabilities position it as a valuable asset for modern militaries, providing them with a versatile and capable combat helicopter.
