TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK

The TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK is a twin-engine, tandem seat, multi-role, all-weather attack helicopter based on the Agusta A129 Mangusta platform. The T129 was developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), with partner AgustaWestland. The helicopter is designed for advanced attack and reconnaissance in hot and high environments and rough geography in both day and night conditions.

The ATAK program was begun to meet the Turkish Armed Forces' requirements for an attack and tactical reconnaissance helicopter. The T129 is the result of the integration of Turkish developed high-tech avionics, air-frame modifications, and weapon systems onto the combat proven AgustaWestland A129 airframe, with upgraded engines, transmission and rotor blades. It is in use by the Turkish Army, and is being offered to other services.

Variants

 * T129A EDH (Erken Duhul Helikopteri or Early Delivery Helicopter): T129A is the "combat support" version equipped with a 20mm gatling gun and rounds and can carry 70mm (2.75 in) rockets; nine T129As have been ordered. Six helicopters have been delivered to the Turkish Army. The T129As are to be upgraded to the T129B standard.
 * T129B: T129B is the "multi-role" version equipped with the leading edge electronic warfare systems. 51 helicopters are to be produced, with one to be used as a weapons testbed. The T129B is armed with a 20mm gatling gun and can carry a payload of 8 UMTAS, 12 Roketsan CIRIT, and 2 AIM-92 Stinger missiles.

Users

 * Nigeria
 * Nigerian Army x 6
 * Pakistan
 * Pakistan Army x 30
 * Philippines
 * Philippine Army x 24
 * Turkey
 * Turkish Land Forces x 100

Related Development

 * Agusta A129 Mangusta

Comparable Aircraft

 * Bell AH-1J SuperCobra
 * Changhe Z-10
 * Denel Rooivalk
 * Eurocopter Tiger
 * HAL Light Combat Helicopter