While not as fast as planes, helicopters are far from slow – and they offer a lot more flexibility and functions than planes. These additional functions include being able to operate completely without a runway. Here are the current top three fastest military helicopters.
Bell Boeing V22 Osprey – 310mph
The Bell Boing V22 Osprey holds the outright speed record for a rotor-powered aircraft with a top speed of 310mph. According to Wikipedia, the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey is an American multi-mission, tiltrotor military aircraft with both vertical takeoff and landing and short takeoff and landing capabilities. It is designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter with the long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft.
Westland Lynx – 249mph
The Westland Lynx remains the holder of the Helicopter speed record set in 1986 with a top speed of 249mph. The Westland Lynk was originally intended as a utility craft for both civil and naval usage, military interest led to the development of both battlefield and naval variants. This helicopter has since been replaced by the NH Industries NH90.
Boeing AH-64 Apache – 227mph
The third-fastest military helicopter is the Boeing AH-64 Apache. This one includes one of the first designs based on a narrow tandem cockpit layout. It features a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems. It conducts rear, close, and shaping missions including deep precision strikes.
Honorable Mention- UH-60 Black Hawk
Since its introduction in 1978, the UH-60 Black Hawk has seen extensive service throughout the world in the utility/transport roles proving to be both robust and reliable. The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter. The successful Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter continues its service as a workhorse for many-an-army worldwide.
Having a fast military helicopter is vital for armies. Technology has continued to allow further advancements in both the speed and function of military helicopters. For more information on the Black Hawk, contact us today.