![]() ![]() Only two months after the type's entry to service, it was first deployed into the Vietnam War. ![]() The OH-58 was primarily produced for the United States Army. The early-build OH-58s were equipped with a two-bladed main rotor, while the OH-58D and newer variants have a four-bladed rotor. Another visible feature present on most OH-58s are knife-like extensions above and below the cockpit that form part of the passive wire strike protection system. The OH-58D is equipped to perform armed reconnaissance missions and to provide fire support to friendly ground forces it is equipped with a distinctive Mast Mounted Sight (MMS) containing various sensors for target acquisition and laser designation. Additional improvements, such as the OH-58X, were proposed but ultimately not pursued.ĭuring the 1970s, the US Army became interested in pursuing an advanced scout helicopter, for which the OH-58 would be further developed, evaluated, and ultimately procured as the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior. Successive models would follow, often with uprated engines, enhanced protection systems, and other improvements, culminating in the OH-58F. The initial model, designated by the service as the OH-58A, was introduced in May 1969. While the rival Hughes OH-6 Cayuse was picked over Bell's submission in May 1965, the company refined its design to create the Model 206A, a variant of which it successfully submitted to the reopened LOH competition two years later. The OH-58 was originally developed during the early 1960s as the D-250 for the Light Observation Helicopter (LOH). It was produced by the American manufacturer Bell Helicopter and is closely related to the Model 206A JetRanger civilian helicopter. ![]() The Bell OH-58 Kiowa is a family of single-engine single- rotor military helicopters used for observation, utility, and direct fire support. ![]()
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