AH-1G Cobra with Vietnam Era Crew 1:32 Model Kit by ICM

Model Features

• 1:32 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the Bell AH-1G Cobra attack helicopter as operated by the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War
• Includes three highly detailed Vietnam-era U.S. Army helicopter crew figures
• Highly detailed tandem cockpit with authentic instrument panels and controls
• Finely engraved panel lines and realistic surface detail
• Detailed Lycoming T53 turboshaft engine and transmission assembly
• Accurate rotor head, tail rotor, and drive shaft detail
• Fully detailed landing skids and weapons pylons
• Includes M28 chin turret with grenade launcher and minigun armament
• Optional rocket pods and external stores
• Clear canopy parts with excellent transparency
• Precision-moulded plastic parts
• Waterslide decal sheet featuring three authentic Vietnam War marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Ideal for Vietnam War aviation collections, helicopter displays, or realistic battlefield diorama projects with included crew figures.

Specifications

• Brand: ICM
• Scale: 1:32
• Subject: Bell AH-1G Cobra with Vietnam Era Crew
• Material: Injection-moulded plastic
• Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced modellers
• Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
• Recommended Age: 14+
• Parts: 241 helicopter parts plus 36 figure parts
• Figures Included: 3 Vietnam-era U.S. Army crew figures
• Model Length: 422mm
• Rotor Diameter: 106mm

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues for the AH-1G Cobra
• Three Vietnam-era U.S. Army helicopter crew figures
• Clear canopy parts
• Rocket pods and chin-mounted weapons
• Waterslide decal sheet with three Vietnam War marking options
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The Bell AH-1G Cobra was the world's first purpose-built attack helicopter and became one of the defining aircraft of the Vietnam War. Developed by Bell Helicopter, the Cobra was designed in response to the U.S. Army's requirement for a dedicated gunship capable of escorting transport helicopters while providing devastating close air support for troops on the ground.

Drawing heavily on the proven mechanical components of the UH-1 Iroquois (Huey), Bell created a much narrower fuselage with a tandem cockpit, reducing drag and presenting a smaller target to enemy fire. The prototype first flew in 1965, and the AH-1G entered operational service in 1967, deploying to Vietnam later that same year.

Powered by a Lycoming T53-L-13 turboshaft engine, the Cobra could reach speeds of over 315 km/h (196 mph), making it one of the fastest helicopters of its time. Its slim profile, excellent manoeuvrability, and impressive firepower allowed it to accompany UH-1 Hueys into hostile landing zones, suppress enemy positions, and provide immediate fire support during combat operations.

The AH-1G was armed with the M28 chin turret, typically fitted with a combination of a 7.62mm M134 Minigun and a 40mm M129 grenade launcher. Stub wings carried 2.75-inch rocket pods, while later aircraft could be equipped with additional weapons depending on mission requirements. This formidable arsenal earned the Cobra the nickname "air artillery" among troops serving in Vietnam.

More than 1,100 AH-1G Cobras were built, and they flew hundreds of thousands of combat sorties throughout the conflict. The helicopter proved exceptionally effective in escort missions, armed reconnaissance, convoy protection, and close air support. Its survivability and combat effectiveness established the attack helicopter as an essential component of modern battlefield doctrine.

The Cobra family continued to evolve after Vietnam, leading to the twin-engine AH-1 SeaCobra and SuperCobra variants operated by the United States Marine Corps and numerous international operators. The original AH-1G remains one of the most iconic helicopters ever built and a symbol of American air power during the Vietnam War.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: United States
• First Flight: 7 September 1965
• Entered Service: 1967
• Role: Attack Helicopter
• Manufacturer: Bell Helicopter
• Crew: 2 (Pilot and Gunner)
• Engine: One Lycoming T53-L-13 turboshaft engine
• Primary Armament: M28 chin turret with 7.62mm M134 Minigun and/or 40mm M129 grenade launcher
• Secondary Armament: 2.75-inch rocket pods and various external stores
• Maximum Speed: Approximately 315 km/h (196 mph)
• Range: Approximately 510 km

Please Note

This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 14 and over.