Military Helicopters: Complete Guide to Helicopter Fleet
Current Status of Iran’s Helicopter Fleet
Aging American Helicopters
Today, many of Iran’s U.S.-origin helicopters are decades old, with some dating back to the 1970s. Despite their age, they remain operational, thanks to domestic repair and upgrade programs, but face challenges like parts shortages and maintenance issues.
Modernization Efforts and Indigenous Production
To address these challenges, Iran has initiated domestic helicopter manufacturing programs, producing versions of classic models and developing new indigenous helicopters.
Iran’s Indigenous Helicopter Program: The Rise of Toofan Series
Toofan 1 and Toofan 2
Iran has developed indigenous attack helicopters based on the American AH-1J Cobra, named Toofan 1 and Toofan 2. These domestically produced attack helicopters are equipped with advanced indigenous missile systems like the Qaem-114 and Shafaq.
Features and Capabilities
- Upgraded weapon systems: Indigenous missile integration, including laser-guided and thermally guided missiles.
- Enhanced avionics: Modern navigation and targeting systems.
- Operational role: Close air support, anti-armor, and tactical strike missions.
