Nordic Light Attack Helicopter Squadron
Having operated Bell 412 Arapahos since 1989, the RNoAFs maintenance and logistics infrastructure for this helicopter, which with its latest upgrades is relatively similar to the USMC’s Bell UH-1Y Venom, was already in place with personnel and equipment, making the introduction of the AH-1Z much easier and cost-effective compared to its closest competitors; the Boeing AH-64 Apache and Eurocopter Tiger. Rumour has it that procurement of new UH-1Ys to replace the RNoAF’s older Bell 412 Arapahos is included in the deal with Bell Helicopters, although this has yet to be confirmed officially. This would however not be surprising, seeing as the RNoAF 339 sq. and 720 sq. has been organized similarly to the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadrons after taking deliveries of the new AH-1Zs, and are frequently cooperating with the USMC on exercises in Northern Europe and the Arctic.
Nordic Light Attack Helicopter Squadron
Having operated Bell 412 Arapahos since 1989, the RNoAFs maintenance and logistics infrastructure for this helicopter, which with its latest upgrades is relatively similar to the USMC’s Bell UH-1Y Venom, was already in place with personnel and equipment, making the introduction of the AH-1Z much easier and cost-effective compared to its closest competitors; the Boeing AH-64 Apache and Eurocopter Tiger. Rumour has it that procurement of new UH-1Ys to replace the RNoAF’s older Bell 412 Arapahos is included in the deal with Bell Helicopters, although this has yet to be confirmed officially. This would however not be surprising, seeing as the RNoAF 339 sq. and 720 sq. has been organized similarly to the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadrons after taking deliveries of the new AH-1Zs, and are frequently cooperating with the USMC on exercises in Northern Europe and the Arctic.