The A 129 Mangusta was designed as the primary attack helicopter for the Italian Army. By Staff Writer
The A 129 Mangusta ("Mongoose") was developed as a variant of the A 109 series of helicopters. The newly design aircraft proved to be larger and so different than its predecessor that the system was designated as the A 129 and considered an entirely new helicopter. Later classified as a medium attack helicopter with an armed reconnaissance role, the A 129 became the principle attack helicopter for Italian armed forces. The original work on the A 129 began as early as 1978 to fulfill an Italian army need, though the first production Mangusta was delivered as late as 1990 with the prototype flying in 1983.
Seating accommodations in all A 129 variants is in tandem, with the pilot raised at rear and the gunner in the front cockpit. Cockpit glass consists of flat panels that are glazed over to cut down on glint effecting vision. Side glass portions are also ejecting in the event of an emergency. Variants are limited to the base A 129, the “International” version and the “Combat” standardized version with each offering up different modifications to the base system.
The "International" version of the A 129 Mangusta was developed as the export version in an effort to secure foreign orders. The system differed from the base A 129 in the implementation of two LHTEC T800 turboshaft engines. An optional undernose turret gun was also presented into the mix of armament that included standard provisions for TOW anti-tank missiles and rocket pods. Stinger air-to-air missiles are also applicable.
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Aircraft Quick Profile
Image courtesy of Dan Alex.
1990
Designation:AgustaWestland A 129 Mangusta (Mongoose) Classification Type:Medium Multirole Attack / Reconnaissance Helicopter Contractor:Agusta - Italy Country of Origin: Italy Production Total: 60
Operators: Italy
Variants
A 129 Mangusta - Base Production Model Designation.
A 129 Mangusta "Combat" - Standardized Mangusta model series.
A 129 Mangusta "International" - Export Model Designation; fitted with LHTEC T800 turboshaft engines; optional 20mm three-barrel cannon in undernose turret.
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