AH-1 Cobra Gunship vs NVA Armor by Peter E Davies

AH-1 Cobra Gunship vs NVA Armor by Peter E Davies

A new study of how the first purpose-built anti-tank helicopter gunship – the Bell AH-1 Cobra – engaged communist armor and well-armed irregular fighters in the war for control of Vietnam.

The Vietnam War was often dubbed ‘the helicopter war’ because it was the first conflict in which helicopters took a dominant role. As the only dedicated gunship to be fielded by US forces during the conflict, the AH-1 Cobra saw combat against North Vietnamese Army (NVA) tanks, armored personnel carriers (APCs), and heavy anti-aircraft weaponry while joining OH-6A "Loach" scout helicopters on "Pink Team" hunter-killer flights. There were more than 700 Cobras operational in Vietnam by 1972, and it proved such an effective weapon that the NVA often avoided shooting at it, fearing massive and instant retribution.

In this action-packed new study, Vietnam War expert Peter E. Davies examines the development and deployment of the Cobra, its engagements with Soviet- and Chinese-supplied tanks and heavy machine guns, and how it was adapted to counter devastating surface-to-air missile attacks in 1972. Numerous key clashes – including the Tet Offensive and actions at Loc Ninh and An Loc – are explored in detail, with first-hand accounts, newly commissioned artwork, and more than 50 photographs bringing the operations of this iconic helicopter to life.

Peter E. Davies has published over 40 books for Osprey, specializing in the aircraft of the Vietnam and Cold War periods. He has also been a contributor to publications such as Aeroplane Monthly, Aviation News and Aircraft Illustrated.

Gareth Hector is a digital artist of international standing. He created the cover artwork for this title.

Jim Laurier has worked on the Osprey aviation list since 2000, and in that time he has produced some of the finest artwork seen in these volumes.