Mission

The UH-1Y Venom replaced the UH-1N Huey and includes the latest in technology and production techniques to continue the legacy of the venerable and battle-proven H-1 helicopter design. The UH-1Y includes a new four-bladed, all-composite and ballistically tolerant (up to 23 mm) rotor system, new engines and transmissions, integrated digital cockpit featuring multifunction flat panel displays, increased payload capabilities, and crash-worthy seating for all crew and passengers. The UH-1Y Venom platform also provides significantly increased load carrying ability, greater range and survivability, and has a smaller logistics footprint.

Additionally, the AH-1Z and UH-1Y share 85 percent parts commonality, designed to significantly reduce life-cycle costs and the aircraft’s logistical footprint, while increasing the maintainability and deployability.

Description

The UH-1Y is the most significant upgrade ever made to the venerable and battle-proven H-1 helicopter. At the heart of the upgrade is a new four-bladed, all-composite and ballistically tolerant (up to 23 mm) rotor system. Upgraded engines and transmissions, integrated digital cockpit featuring multifunction flat panel displays, increased payload capabilities, crash-worthy seating for all crew and passengers, and 85 percent common parts with the AH-1Z Super Cobra. The UH-1Y platform also provides increased load carrying ability, greater range and survivability, and has a smaller logistical footprint.

Specifications

Primary Function: Utility helicopter

Contractor: Bell Helicopter Company

Date Deployed: Initial operating capability 2008

Propulsion: Two General Electric T-700-GE-401C Turboshaft engines, 1,800 shp (1,340 kW) each

Length: 58 feet, 4 inches (17.78 meters)

Height: 14 feet, 7 inches (4.5 meters)

Rotor Diameter: 48 feet, 10 inches (14.88 meters)

Weight: Empty: 11,840 pounds (5,370 kg); Maximum Takeoff Weight: 18,500 pounds (8,390 kg)

Crew: Twelve; pilot and co-pilot, one crew chief, one gunner and eight combat-equipped Marines  

Program Status

ACAT: ACAT IC Program
Acquisition Phase: In Production
Projected Inventory: 160 
Initial Operational Capabilities (IOC) date: August 2008
Projected Full Operational Capabilities (FOC) date: March 2016

Updated: February 2023