OH-1 Ninja
Kawasaki · Japan · first flew 1996 · helicopter
The Kawasaki OH-1 Ninja is a slim tandem-seat observation and scout helicopter, Japan's first indigenously designed rotorcraft.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 13.4 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Slim tandem scout helicopter
- Ducted fenestron tail rotor
- Stub wings for sensors and stores
Note the very narrow stepped tandem cockpit, small stub wings, twin engines above the cabin and a ducted fenestron tail rotor.
Specifications
- The OH-1 Ninja has a length of 13.4 m (44 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.6 m (38 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 278 km/h (173 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed to replace the OH-6 in the scout role, the OH-1 first flew in 1996 powered by two Mitsubishi turboshafts. It entered limited service with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force from the turn of the century.
Variants
The production OH-1 has remained close to its prototype configuration, with study proposals for armed and re-engined derivatives that were not pursued in quantity. It retains its distinctive shrouded tail rotor throughout.
Where you'll see it
It serves solely with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force in the armed reconnaissance role and has no UK counterpart in service, the British Army having used the Gazelle and later Wildcat for scouting.
Related aircraft
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