Bell Helicopter’s increased mission capability with Bell 407GT

Bell Helicopter has introduced the new Bell 407GT, the armed version of the Bell 407GX, its state-of-the-art light commercial helicopter. The commercially qualified Bell 407GT incorporates the performance and reliability of the Bell 407 platform with the Garmin G1000HTM flight deck, providing critical flight information at a glance for greater situational awareness. The 407GX can be equipped with infrared cameras, light munitions and precision weapons systems, including laser-guided rockets and missiles.

“The 407GT is a ’force multiplier’, with mission capabilities ranging from tactical air assault and troop escort to reconnaissance and search and rescue,” said Danny Maldonado, Bell Helicopter Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “The proven performance of the Bell 407GX platform provides our customers an aircraft that is ready to fly when duty calls, while powerful munitions capabilities coupled with an advanced flight deck ensures mission success.”

The Bell 407GT features a highly flexible and configurable weapons system for tactical operations, including infrared camera system with laser designation capability, weapons management system, universal weapons pylon (UWP), tactical radio suite and aircraft survivability equipment.

The UWP, derived from the battle-tested Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, provides a stable platform for precise delivery of ordnance and can be quickly reconfigured for machine guns or rockets. The pylon can also be easily removed to meet multiple mission requirements such as search and rescue or medical evacuation. Light munitions capabilities of the 407GT include Dillon M13D mini-guns, .50 calibre machine guns or 2.75 in. rockets, as well as laser-guided weapons featuring a standoff range of more than 5,000 metres.