American Bell helicopters offered to boost Ukraine’s air power
Ukraine has been offered American light attack helicopters, the Bell 407M, reports the Ukrainian agency Unian. However, the U.S. company is not disclosing any details about the mysterious offer. The number of helicopters covered by the agreement and when the equipment might arrive in Kyiv is unknown.
Support for Ukraine most often involves armoured vehicles, artillery systems, firearms, and occasionally aircraft. It is rare for social media reports to mention sending helicopters to the front.
Recently, there was talk about this type of machinery in Argentina, where the local defence minister, Luis Alfonso Petri, expressed support for Ukraine's efforts to defend against Russia and stated that he would support Kyiv with Mi-171E transport helicopters. Previously, Czech so-called flying tanks, or Mi-35 helicopters, had been delivered to Ukraine.
Strengthening the Ukrainian army
In the near future, Ukrainian armed forces may be reinforced with additional helicopters. This time, they will be Bell 407Ms, which the United States has proposed to Ukraine. Bell's Executive Director, Jeffrey Schlosser, explained that this assistance is offered as part of strengthening the air force with light and affordable machines.
The agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine is quite mysterious – neither side is talking about the details. Therefore, it is not known how extensive the support from the American company will be. It is also unknown when the Bell helicopters might appear on the front line and what tasks they will perform.
It is worth explaining, however, that due to the versatile nature of the Bell 407M, the machine can be used virtually anywhere on the front, but also away from the front lines where the fiercest battles are taking place. The American producer explains that the new 407M is used for various types of tasks. It is suitable for light attacks, special operations, reconnaissance, command, control, and scouting over bodies of water.
The Bell 407M is characterised by a maximum payload of about 2,200 kg. It can carry armaments on six hardpoints that can be equipped with 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm machine guns, unguided Hydra rockets, or their guided APKWS versions. The manufacturer has also adapted the helicopter for integration with AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles.
The maximum range of the Bell 407M is approximately 620 km, while the Rolls-Royce 250-C47E/4 turboshaft engine, generating a maximum takeoff power of about 860 kW and continuous power of 760 kW, accelerates this structure to a speed of about 250 km/h. The cabin of this U.S. equipment can accommodate seven people.
