A direct descendant of the first ever attack helicopter, the AH-1 Cobra, the Bell AH-1Z Viper is a result of the evolution of top American rotary aircraft.

Also known as Zulu Cobra for its variant letter, the aircraft’s elite DNA dates back to the 1960s. However, it would be until three decades later that the US government made sure the Viper would enter the new millennium with mighty force.

The Viper features the best qualities of the Huey and Cobra in one sleek design. However, unlike other Bell helicopters, the Zulu Cobra proved a bold enterprise, changing the company’s signature two-bladed main rotor for a four-bladed one that allowed for outstanding flying and combat capabilities.

Implementing state-of-the-art weapons and digital technology, the Viper was not only able to respond to the demands of the contemporary battlefield, but effectively became the most advanced helicopter to this day…

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Join Dark Skies as we explore the world of aviation with cinematic short documentaries featuring the biggest and fastest airplanes ever built, top-secret military projects, and classified missions with hidden untold true stories. Including US, German, and Soviet warplanes, along with aircraft developments that took place during World War I, World War 2, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the Gulf War, and special operations mission in between.

As images and footage of actual events are not always available, Dark Skies sometimes utilizes similar historical images and footage for dramatic effect and soundtracks for emotional impact. We do our best to keep it as visually accurate as possible.

All content on Dark Skies is researched, produced, and presented in historical context for educational purposes. We are history enthusiasts and are not always experts in some areas, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with corrections, additional information, or new ideas.