The Kawasaki OH-1 is a light military reconnaissance helicopter for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, intended to replace the OH-6 Loach. Four have entered service so far, complementing the existing fleet of nearly 300 OH-6s.
Development
The helicopter first flew in 1996. Powered by two Mitsubishi TS1 turboshafts, it features a Fenestron-type rotor-in-tail fan and E-Q sensor mounted forward of rotor head. It has two pylons under stub wings and can carry 291 lb (132 kg) of Type 91 guided AAMs.
A total of four were delivered between May and August 1997. The Ground Self-Defense Force has penciled in purchases of 180 to 200 OH-Xs. That would be far fewer than the 297 OH-6Ds KHI had through March 1995, and even this goal could fall prey to the new defense budget realities in Japan.
The OH-1 is slated to replace the Hughes OH-6D, which remains in service as the primary aircraft in this role.
The helicopter first flew in 1996. Powered by two Mitsubishi TS1 turboshafts, it features a Fenestron-type rotor-in-tail fan and E-Q sensor mounted forward of rotor head. It has two pylons under stub wings and can carry 291 lb (132 kg) of Type 91 guided AAMs.
A total of four were delivered between May and August 1997. The Ground Self-Defense Force has penciled in purchases of 180 to 200 OH-Xs. That would be far fewer than the 297 OH-6Ds KHI had through March 1995, and even this goal could fall prey to the new defense budget realities in Japan.
The OH-1 is slated to replace the Hughes OH-6D, which remains in service as the primary aircraft in this role.
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