Transport Helicopters used as Attack Helicopters

Transport helicopters used in the attack mode…

My favorite type of helicopters. Such ones as the UH-1M, Mi-8AMTSh, Mi-171Sh, IAR-330L, AH-60L, ACH-47, and others…

IAR-330L Puma SOCAT

Following the way of the modernization, Romanian Air Force has running an upgrade program for the local built IAR-330L Puma, which is the backbone of its helicopter fleet. The contract to carry out the program was awarded to Elbit in October 1996, for 24 IAR-330L Puma helicopters. The Romanian manufacturer of the helicopters, IAR S.A. Brasov is collaborating with Elbit on the upgrade program named SOCAT – Sistem Optic de Cautare si lupta AntiTanc (Antitank Optronic Search and Combat System).
The first prototype was exhibited at the Paris Air Show in June 1997 in the static display. The first flight of the prototype took place on 26 May 1998 and a second prototype had also been built. The cost of the whole program is about US $100 million. Initial phase of the program is worth US$20 million for delivery of a first batch of helicopters.
The upgrade covers anti-armor, Close Air Support (CAS), Battlefield Air Interdiction (BAI), air defense, armed reconnaissance, command and control as well as assault escort missions. The first helicopter was delivered in October 2000 to the 61st Helicopter Airbase of the Romanian Air Force.
The upgrade new equipment is based on an architecture built around the MIL-STD-1553B databus and a Helicopter Multi-Role Computer and the main components of the system include:
– HMRC – Helicopter Multi-Role Computer
– NVG – Night Vision Goggles
– MFD Multi Function Displays
– MIDASH – Helmet-Mounted Displays Helmet-Mounted Sight System
– MFCD – Multi Function Color Displays
– EOP – Electro-Optical Payload
– DTS – Data Transfer System –
– EGI – Embedded GPS/Inertial navigation system
– Target acquisition and weapons systems control
– CIU – Cockpit Interface Unit
– UHF/VHF radio communication system
– HOCAS – Hands On Cyclic And Stick
– Radar & Laser Warning Receiver – SPS40V2
– Chaff & flare dispensers

The upgrade provides capability to fire different types of point target standoff fire and forget antitank missiles (e.g. X-5) and air-to-air missiles as well as 57 mm and 70 mm rockets. Upgrade also includes Giat Industries THL20 20 mm turreted gun to be installed under the chin. The helicopter is now operational and the first aircraft have been delivered to 61st Helicopter Airbase.