RAH-66 Commanche Model Helicopter

Item#: HR66TR

MSRP Price: $205.15

Factory Direct Price: $153.86

Wing Span: 11.50
Length: 9.75

Manufacturer: Boeing Helicopters/Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation

In 1982 the U.S. Army started the Light Helicopter Experimental (LHX) program to replace UH-1, AH-1, OH-6, and OH-58 helicopters. This requirement was changed to a reconnaissance helicopter by 1988.

The U.S. Army currently has an armed scout helicopter in its fleet — the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior — but that aircraft is an upgraded version of a Vietnam-era observation helicopter.

In contrast, the Comanche was specifically tailored to the role of armed scout. It is smaller and lighter than the AH-64 Apache gunship — 43 feet (13.1 m) long and 7,700 pounds (3,500 kg) vs. 58 ft (17.7 m) and 11,400 pounds (5,200 kg) – and its composite material airframe incorporated stealth features to avoid detection, such as retractable weapon stations and main gun, and stealth faceting and radar absorbent materials. The Comanche's noise signature is noticeably smaller than others in its class.

The Comanche's very sophisticated detection and navigation systems were intended to allow it to operate at night and in bad weather. Its airframe was designed to fit more easily than the Apache into transport aircraft or onto transport ships, enabling it to be deployed to hot spots quickly. If transport assets were not available, the Comanche's ferry range of 1,260 nautical miles (2,330 km, 1,553 statute miles) would even allow it to fly to battlefields overseas on its own.

Please note that the stand shown in this photograph may vary or change with the model you receive.