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What was, according to the text, the only European "gunship"?
Short answer
The Agusta A129 Mangusta is the first European attack helicopter and the first designed and produced entirely in Europe. The first of its prototypes flew on 11 September 1983, and the Italian Army received 60 units, with deliveries from 1990.
An Attack Helicopter Made in Europe
The A129 Mangusta is the first European attack helicopter and the first designed and produced entirely in Europe. The first of the type's five prototypes made its maiden flight on 11 September 1983. The Italian Army would receive a total of 60 A129s, with deliveries beginning in 1990. Power is provided by two Rolls-Royce Gem 2-1004D turboshafts, built under licence by Piaggio.
Armor and Crew
The A129's fuselage is very angular and armored to provide ballistic protection. The composite rotor blades can withstand hits from 23 mm cannon fire. The two-man crew, made up of pilot and gunner, sit in a conventional tandem cockpit.
Avionics and Target Designation
Among the original aspects of its design is that it was the first helicopter to employ a fully computerized integrated management system to reduce crew workload. It is fitted with infrared night-vision systems and can operate by day or night in any weather condition. On the AW129D, the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Toplite III sight acts as the primary target designation system.
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