Ranking the World’s Most Formidable Combat Helicopters

4. Gazelle: A Breakthrough in Aerospace Exploration

The Aérospatiale Gazelle helicopter is a multipurpose aircraft often used for light transport, reconnaissance, and light attack missions. With five seats, it can be fitted with four anti-tank missiles or 20 mm cannons mounted on each side of the fuselage, with ammunition stored onboard. Powered by a Turboméca Astazou turbine, it was the first helicopter to use a shrouded tail rotor (fenestron) instead of a traditional tail rotor, offering improved safety and reduced noise.
Thanks to its lower cargo hook, the Gazelle can carry up to five passengers and a maximum load of 600 kg (1,320 pounds). Designed and built jointly in France and the UK by Sud Aviation and Westland, this helicopter embodies advanced technological collaboration between the two countries.

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