Print text reads:
Bell AH-1Z Viper 168961
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, MAG-39, HMLA-369 ‘Gunfighters’
The AH-1Z Viper is the latest in a long line of Bell helicopter gunships that started with the UH-1A Iroquois, or ‘Huey’, during the Vietnam War. The AH-1G HueyCobra, or Snake, was designed using UH-1C Iroquois dynamic systems in a new, slim, two-seat fuselage with weapons slung on stub wings, a chin turret, and a broad-chord, two-blade main rotor. This was the first purpose-designed attack helicopter. The single-engined AH-1G was progressively developed into the twin-engined AH-1J and AH-1T SeaCobras, and AH-1W SuperCobra. The AH-1Z Viper represents a generational leap in the Cobra family with the introduction of upgraded engines and electronics, a bearingless, rigid four-blade composite main rotor, and a four-blade tail rotor. It was developed concurrently with the UH-1Y Venom, which is itself the latest development of the original utility Huey. The Viper and the Venom have a large, 85%, parts commonality, sharing the same engines, gearbox, rotors and tailboom.
168961, modex no. 47, is shown here as it appeared when based at MCAB Iwakuni, Japan, in 2018.
The Artwork
These digital profile illustrations are all created by me, Graeme Molineux. They are created from scratch using illustration and photo-manipulation software. Each type takes between twenty and one hundred hours to complete. They are not retouched photos, nor are they the product of any kind of CAD or 3D rendering software. They are, effectively, digital paintings. Every Grubby Fingers profile is meticulously researched using my own photos and repair and maintenance manuals, when available. Many reference images are collected and, where feasible, I study an actual prototype. The illustrations are high-resolution and very detailed. Each illustration is a result of hours of painstaking research and attention to references. (My 40,000+ reference photos are available, for non-commercial use, free from my main website: grubby-fingers-aircraft-illustration.com.)
The Prints
Grubby Fingers profile prints are detailed, accurate, high quality and long lasting. The attention to detail in the illustrations and the quality of the print materials mean you will have an image of aviation history to enjoy for years to come. They make outstanding and appreciated aviation gifts for enthusiasts and pilots. Grubby Fingers aircraft prints are printed in-house at Grubby Fingers. Each print is checked for quality.
Delivery
Allow 7 days for delivery within Australia. International delivery will depend on location and shipping method. Message for a cost and time estimate. The prints are packed in robust Australia Post mailing tubes of either 65 mm or 90 mm diameter, depending on the number of prints ordered.
Variations
Variations and personalisation are welcome. Charges may apply.