When it comes to military aviation, gunship helicopters have made a big impact with their speed and power. Their incredible engineering and capabilities make these machines such formidable forces on the battlefield.
Based on the data provided by the MilitaryFactory – Global Defense Reference catalog of gunship helicopters, here are some of the fastest, most powerful, and most impressive gunship helicopters that have ever graced the skies.
1. Bell V-280 Valor
- Top Speed: 265 mph
- Type: Tiltrotor technology demonstrator
- Year Introduced: 2020
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
The Bell V-280 Valor is one of the fastest gunships, reaching an impressive speed of 265 mph. This helicopter uses tiltrotor technology, which means its rotors can tilt to allow for both vertical takeoff and faster horizontal flight.
Introduced in 2020, it’s a relatively new model that showcases advanced technology for military operations.
2. Mil Mi-24 (Hind)
- Top Speed: 208 mph
- Type: Armed assault gunship / attack helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1973
- Country of Origin: Soviet Union
- Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant
A sky veteran, the Mil Mi-24, often called the Hind, is an iconic gunship that has been around since 1973. It’s known for its dual role as both a transport helicopter and an attack helicopter, meaning it can carry troops while providing fire support.
Developed by the Soviet Union, the Mi-24 has a rugged design and has seen action in numerous conflicts.
3. Mil AH-2 Sabre (Mi-35M)
- Top Speed: 193 mph
- Type: Armed assault gunship/Attack helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2010
- Country of Origin: Brazil
- Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant / Russian Helicopters
The Mil AH-2 Sabre, also known as the Mi-35M, is a Brazilian version of the Mil Mi-24 and was introduced in 2010. It reaches a top speed of 193 mph. This helicopter is primarily designed for armed assault missions, and it carries advanced weapon systems.
Its Brazilian origin shows how various countries can adapt and modify military technology to suit their needs, blending Russian design with local requirements.
4. Mil Mi-35 (Hind-E)
- Top Speed: 193 mph
- Type: Attack/Assault gunship helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2010
- Country of Origin: Brazil
- Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant / Russian Helicopters
Another impressive model is the Mil Mi-35, known as the Hind-E, which also has a top speed of 193 mph. Like the AH-2 Sabre, it was introduced in 2010 and serves similar roles in assault operations.
It features upgraded systems over its predecessor, allowing it to engage in modern warfare effectively. Its design reflects the blend of Brazilian and Russian technology, aimed at enhancing combat effectiveness.
5. Leonardo AW101 Merlin (EH101)
- Top Speed: 192 mph
- Type: Medium-lift / multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1999
- Country of Origin: Italy
- Manufacturer: Leonardo
A versatile medium-lift helicopter with a top speed of 192 mph, the AW101 Merlin was introduced in 1999 and made by Leonardo in Italy. This helicopter serves multiple roles, including troop transport and search-and-rescue missions.
While it’s not strictly an attack helicopter, its capabilities make it a valuable asset in various military operations.
6. Bell UH-1Y Venom (Super Huey)
- Top Speed: 190 mph
- Type: Medium-lift utility / transport helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2009
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
Often called the Super Huey, it’s a modern upgrade of the famous Huey helicopter that has been around since the Vietnam War. This medium-lift helicopter can carry troops and supplies, making it a reliable choice for various missions.
Manufactured in the U.S. by Bell Helicopter, the Super Huey is known for its versatility and effectiveness in both combat and humanitarian missions.
7. Harbin Z-9 (Haitun)
- Top Speed: 190 mph
- Type: Medium-lift transport / gunship helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1994
- Country of Origin: China
- Manufacturer: Harbin
Also known as the Haitun, this gunship chopper matches the Super Huey with a top speed of 190 mph. This helicopter has been in service since 1994 and serves as both a transport and a gunship.
Made in China by Harbin, the Z-9 is used for various roles, including troop transport and close air support.
8. Airbus Helicopters AS565 Panther
- Top Speed: 190 mph
- Type: Multipurpose/ Multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1985
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale
The Airbus Helicopters AS565 Panther is a French helicopter known for its multipurpose capabilities. It can be used for transport, search-and-rescue, and anti-surface warfare.
The Panther’s design allows it to perform well in various conditions that makes it popular among military and naval forces.
9. Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk
- Top Speed: 183 mph
- Type: Medium-lift multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1979
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a well-known American helicopter that can reach speeds of up to 183 mph. Since its introduction in 1979, it has been a workhorse for the U.S. military, providing transport and support for troops in various scenarios.
Its multirole design allows it to adapt to different missions, including medical evacuation and search-and-rescue operations.
10. HAL Rudra (ALH-WSI)
- Top Speed: 180 mph
- Type: Gunship / Multirole military helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2012
- Country of Origin: India
- Manufacturer: Hindustan Aeronautical Limited
The HAL Rudra, or ALH-WSI, is an Indian helicopter that was introduced in 2012 and designed as a gunship for military operations. The Rudra is equipped with advanced avionics and weapon systems, making it effective for combat scenarios.
11. Sikorsky S-76
- Top Speed: 180 mph
- Type: Medium-lift multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1977
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
Reaching a top speed of 180 mph, the Sikorsky S-76 is often used in fast transport and utility missions. It is widely used in the offshore oil and gas industry, as well as for executive transport.
The S-76 is appreciated for its smooth ride and reliability—a popular choice for various civilian and military operations.
12. Leonardo AW109
- Top Speed: 177 mph
- Type: Multirole utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1976
- Country of Origin: Italy
- Manufacturer: Leonardo
A versatile helicopter that is used for many purposes, including emergency medical services, law enforcement, and VIP transport. With its sleek design and advanced technology, the AW109 is known for its agility and reliability.
Made in Italy by Leonardo, it’s a popular choice for various operators around the world.
13. HAL Dhruv (Polaris)
- Top Speed: 174 mph
- Type: Multirole medium-lift transport helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2002
- Country of Origin: India
- Manufacturer: Hindustan Aeronautical Limited
The HAL Dhruv, also known as the Polaris, serves as a medium-lift transport helicopter, meaning it can carry troops and supplies effectively. The Dhruv, manufactured in India, is designed for both military and civilian use.
Its versatility makes it suitable for various missions, including disaster relief and search-and-rescue operations.
14. Leonardo AW149
- Top Speed: 173 mph
- Type: Medium-lift multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2015
- Country of Origin: Italy
- Manufacturer: Leonardo-Finmeccanica
The Leonardo AW149 is another impressive medium-lift multirole designed for military operations. It can transport troops and supplies, and it’s equipped with advanced systems for combat scenarios.
Made by Leonardo-Finmeccanica in Italy, the AW149 is known for its robust design and capability to operate in tough environments.
15. CAIC Z-11
- Top Speed: 173 mph
- Type: Multirole light utility / attack helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1998
- Country of Origin: China
- Manufacturer: Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation
This is a Chinese helicopter designed as a multirole light utility and attack helicopter, which means it can be used for transport missions and also has the capability to engage in combat.
It’s manufactured by a Chinese helicopter manufacturer and supplier and is valued for its agility and effectiveness in various roles within the Chinese military.
16. Sikorsky H-34 / CH-34 Choctaw
- Top Speed: 173 mph
- Type: Close-support / transport helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1954
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
Also known as the CH-34 Choctaw, this helicopter has been used primarily for close-support and transport missions. Originally designed as a sub-chaser, the first flight of the H-34 was on March 8th, 1954.
It served in military missions during the Vietnam War.
17. Harbin Z-20
- Top Speed: 171 mph
- Type: Multi-mission military helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2018
- Country of Origin: China
- Manufacturer: Harbin
A multi-mission military helicopter that is designed for various roles, including troop transport and logistical support. One interesting fact about the Z-20 is that it was inspired by the U.S. Black Hawk helicopter but is built to meet the needs of the Chinese military.
It features advanced technology that’s capable of operating in different environments and situations.
18. Airbus Helicopters AS532 (Super Puma / Cougar)
- Top Speed: 170 mph
- Type: Medium-lift multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1982
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale / Airbus Helicopters
Known as the Super Puma or Cougar, this helicopter is used for many purposes, including troop transport, search and rescue, and medical evacuations. The main aspect of AS532 is its versatility; it can be adapted with different equipment and armaments for various missions.
Many countries around the world use it, showcasing its reliability and effectiveness in diverse situations.
19. Airbus Helicopters SA 330 Puma
- Top Speed: 170 mph
- Type: Medium transport / assault helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1969
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale
It was introduced back in 1969 and is known for its role as a medium transport and assault helicopter. The Puma has been used in various military operations around the world, including NATO missions.
It can carry a significant payload, and its durability and strong performance have made it a favorite among many military forces.
20. Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King
- Top Speed: 166 mph
- Type: Ship-based anti-submarine warfare helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1961
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
This helicopter was primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare, meaning it helps protect naval ships from enemy submarines. From 1961 to 2006, the U.S. Navy first ordered the Sea King to fight Soviet submarines during the Cold War.
It’s preferred for its robust construction and ability to operate from ships, making it an important part of naval operations.
21. Aerospatiale SA342 Gazelle
- Top Speed: 165 mph
- Type: Lightweight multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1973
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale
The Aerospatiale SA342 Gazelle is a lightweight helicopter designed for various roles, including reconnaissance and light attack missions. One interesting fact about the Gazelle is its sleek design, which helps it fly quickly and quietly. It has been used by many countries and is known for its agility and ability to operate in challenging environments.
22. KAI KUH-1 Surion
- Top Speed: 162 mph
- Type: Medium-lift multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 2013
- Country of Origin: South Korea
- Manufacturer: Korea Aerospace Industries
The KAI KUH-1 Surion, a medium-lift helicopter that was introduced in 2013, was developed to meet the needs of the South Korean military and can be used for transport, medical evacuation, and search and rescue missions. The Surion is the first military helicopter designed and produced entirely in South Korea.
23. Bell CH-146 Griffon
- Top Speed: 162 mph
- Type: Multirole utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1995
- Country of Origin: Canada
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
The Bell CH-146 Griffon is a versatile helicopter that serves as a multirole utility helicopter for the Canadian military. The Griffon is used for various missions, including troop transport, medical evacuations, and disaster relief.
It’s based on the Bell 412 design, which has a proven track record of reliability and performance in different environments.
24. PZL W-3 Sokol
- Top Speed: 162 mph
- Type: Multirole military / civilian utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1985
- Country of Origin: Poland
- Manufacturer: PZL-Swidnik
The PZL W-3 Sokol is known for its versatility, being used for both military and civilian purposes. The Sokol, which means “Falcon” in Polish, can carry passengers, cargo, and medical supplies.
An interesting aspect of the Sokol is that it has been exported to several countries, including the Philippines.
25. Mil Mi-8 (Hip)
- Top Speed: 162 mph
- Type: Multirole medium-lift helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1967
- Country of Origin: Soviet Union
- Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant / Russian Helicopters
Also known as the Hip, it is one of the most widely used helicopters in the world due to its ability to perform many tasks, including transport, cargo lifting, and medical evacuations. The Mi-8 has been used in numerous conflicts and humanitarian missions.
26. Mil Mi-17 (Hip-H)
- Top Speed: 158 mph
- Type: Medium-lift transport / gunship helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1981
- Country of Origin: Soviet Union
- Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant / Russian Helicopters
Not to be confused with the Hip, this helicopter is called the Hip-H. It’s a powerful helicopter that is used for both transporting troops and as a gunship in combat.
The Mi-17 can carry up to 24 soldiers or a huge amount of cargo, making it a very versatile helicopter.
27. Leonardo AW159 (Lynx / Super Lynx)
- Top Speed: 158 mph
- Type: Multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1978
- Country of Origin: United Kingdom
- Manufacturer: Leonardo-Finmeccanica
Dubbed as the Lynx or Super Lynx, this helicopter is designed for multiple roles, including anti-submarine warfare and troop transport. It has a sleek design that helps it fly fast and efficiently.
The AW159 can operate from ships, which makes it very useful for naval forces. Its ability to handle different missions has made it a valuable asset for the UK military and other countries.
28. Airbus Helicopters H125 Fennec (AS550)
- Top Speed: 152 mph
- Type: Light utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1990
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale / Airbus Helicopters
This helicopter is a light utility helicopter used for reconnaissance and support missions. The Fennec is known for its agility and ability to fly in tough environments.
It’s also been widely used by military forces around the world, and it can be fitted with different equipment based on the mission needs.
29. Bell Model 212
- Top Speed: 140 mph
- Type: Medium-lift utility / transport helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1968
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
This reliable medium-lift helicopter has served in many roles, from military transport to civilian use. Known for its twin-engine design, it provides a safe and stable flight.
It’s often seen in action during natural disasters for search and rescue missions.
30. Bell UH-1 Iroquois (Huey)
- Top Speed: 137 mph
- Type: Multirole / utility / attack / transport helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1959
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
Commonly known as the Huey, it is one of the most famous helicopters in history. It was introduced in 1959 and became well-known during the Vietnam War.
The Huey was especially used for transporting troops and medical evacuation. Its distinctive sound and design made it a symbol of that era.
31. Harbin Z-5
- Top Speed: 130 mph
- Type: Transport / utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1965
- Country of Origin: China
- Manufacturer: Harbin
The Harbin Z-5 is a Chinese helicopter designed for transport and utility roles. The Z-5 is known for its ability to operate in various conditions.
It is based on the Soviet Mi-4 helicopter and has served in various missions throughout its history.
32. Aerospatiale Alouette III
- Top Speed: 130 mph
- Type: Light multirole helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1960
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale
A light multirole helicopter well-known for its simplicity and effectiveness, the Alouette III has been used in search and rescue missions, medical evacuations, and military operations.
One interesting fact is that it was one of the first helicopters to be made from composite materials, making it lighter and more efficient. Its long service life shows how dependable this helicopter has been.
33. Piasecki H-21 Workhorse
- Top Speed: 127 mph
- Type: Cargo / Passenger Tandem-rotor transport helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1953
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Piasecki Helicopter / Boeing
The Piasecki H-21 Workhorse is a tandem-rotor helicopter designed for transporting cargo and passengers. The H-21 is stable and can carry heavy loads, especially during the Vietnam War where it aided troop transport and support missions.
The H-21’s tandem rotor design gives it excellent lift and maneuverability, which was quite advanced for its time.
34. Mil Mi-2 (Hoplite)
- Top Speed: 124 mph
- Type: Light utility / training helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1965
- Country of Origin: Soviet Union
- Manufacturer: Mil Helicopter Plant
Called the Hoplite in NATO code, it is a light utility, turbine-powered transport helicopter that is often used for training and utility roles. Since it is reliable and easy to handle, it’s a great choice for training pilots.
The Mi-2 is a utility helicopter from the early Cold War period.
35. Aerospatiale Alouette II
- Top Speed: 115 mph
- Type: Light utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1957
- Country of Origin: France
- Manufacturer: Aerospatiale
The Aerospatiale Alouette II is another light utility helicopter, but it has a slightly lower top speed of 115 mph. It was among the first helicopters to be mass-produced and features a simple design to support various missions, such as transport and light attack roles.
36. Mil Mi-4 (Hound)
- Top Speed: 115 mph
- Type: Multirole utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1953
- Country of Origin: Soviet Union
- Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant
It was one of the first Soviet helicopters designed for various missions, including transport and medical evacuation. It can carry passengers and cargo, making it a versatile choice for many situations. This helicopter saw use in various conflicts and became a vital part of Soviet aviation.
37. Bell Model 207 (Sioux Scout)
- Top Speed: 109 mph
- Type: Light armed scout helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1963
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
The Bell Model 207, or Sioux Scout, made its debut in the 1960s. This helicopter was designed for reconnaissance missions, helping to gather information on enemy movements.
It was light and nimble, making it an excellent choice for scouting and supporting ground troops.
38. Sikorsky MH-60L Direct Action Penetrator (DAP)
- Top Speed: 103 mph
- Type: Special Forces gunship helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1990
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
Often called the DAP, it was introduced in the 1990s for use by Special Forces. This helicopter is heavily armed, allowing it to provide close air support during missions. It has advanced technology and can carry out various tasks.
39. Sikorsky H-19 Chickasaw
- Top Speed: 101 mph
- Type: Multirole transport utility helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1950
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
The Sikorsky H-19 Chickasaw was one of the first helicopters to be used for troop transport, search and rescue, and medical evacuation. With its spacious cabin, it could carry multiple passengers or cargo.
The H-19 served in various conflicts, including the Korean War.
40. Bell UH-1B/C Huey Cobra / Frog
- Top Speed: 95 mph
- Type: Gunship helicopter
- Year Introduced: 1962
- Country of Origin: United States
- Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
The Bell UH-1B/C, often called the Huey Cobra or Frog, was introduced during the Vietnam War. It became famous for its role as a gunship, providing support to ground troops.
This helicopter was known for its distinctive shape and powerful armament. It could carry missiles and guns, making it a formidable opponent in combat.
Each of these helicopters has been important in military history, changing how air support is given in different operations. They also show how aviation technology has improved over the years.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
