American Bell 407M helicopters offered to boost Ukraine's defense
Ukraine has been offered American Bell 407M light attack helicopters, 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 they might arrive in Kyiv is unknown.
7:48 PM EDT, July 25, 2024
Support for Ukraine typically involves armored vehicles, artillery systems, firearms, and occasionally aircraft. Social media reports rarely mention sending helicopters to the front.
Recently, there was talk about this type of machinery in Argentina. The local defense 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 Mi-35 helicopters, often referred to as flying tanks, 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 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 noting that due to the versatile nature of the Bell 407M, the helicopter can be used virtually anywhere on the front, and 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 including light attacks, special operations, reconnaissance, command, control, and scouting over water bodies.
The Bell 407M can carry a maximum payload of about 4,850 lbs. It has six hardpoints that can be equipped with 7.62 mm and 0.5 in 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 385 miles. Its Rolls-Royce 250-C47E/4 turboshaft engine, generating a maximum takeoff power of about 1,155 horsepower and continuous power of 1,020 horsepower, can accelerate the helicopter to speeds of about 155 mph. The cabin of this U.S. equipment can accommodate seven people.
