Bell UH-1Y
The Bell UH-1Y Venom is a thoroughly modernised descendant of the original Vietnam-era Huey, sharing the classic Huey name and general silhouette while replacing nearly every internal system with modern engines, a four-blade composite rotor, and a digital glass cockpit. It was developed alongside the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, sharing around 85 percent of their parts to simplify US Marine Corps maintenance and training across both types. That commonality lets Marine helicopter squadrons operate both aircraft with largely interchangeable spare parts, engines, and maintenance crews. It represents one of the most extensive helicopter modernisation programs ever undertaken, extending a design lineage dating back to 1956 well into the 21st century.
Did you know?
The UH-1Y Venom shares about 85 percent of its parts with the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, easing Marine Corps maintenance.
Specifications
| Length | 17.8 m (58 ft) |
|---|---|
| Height | 4.5 m (15 ft) |
| Rotor diameter | 14.6 m (48 ft) |
| Maximum passengers | 12 |
| Persons on board | 22 |
| Maximum take-off weight | 8.3 t |
| Range | 315 NM (583 km) |
| Service ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) |
| Optimum ceiling | 8,000 ft (2,438 m) |
| Fuel capacity | 1,180 l |
| Engines | 2x General Electric T700 |
| Units built | 160 |
Curated by CatchFlights from manufacturer documents, ICAO Doc 8643 and reference works; values are left out where no source could confirm them. Sources are listed on our credits page.
In CatchFlights
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