Bell introduces new armed helo

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LAS VEGAS, March 5 (UPI) -- Bell Helicopter has introduced an armed version of its 407GX commercial aircraft at a trade show in the United States.

The variant is designated 407GT and can be equipped with light munitions and precision weapons, including laser-guided rockets and missiles.

"The 407GT is a 'force multiplier,' with mission capabilities ranging from tactical air assault and troop escort to reconnaissance and search and rescue," said Danny Maldonado, Bell Helicopter executive vice president, Sales and Marketing.

"The proven performance of the Bell 407GX platform provides our customers an aircraft that is ready to fly when duty calls, while powerful munitions capabilities coupled with an advanced flight deck ensures mission success."

Bell said the 407GT features a flexible and configurable weapons system, a weapons management system, universal weapons pylon, tactical radio suite and aircraft survivability equipment. It also carries an infrared camera system with laser designation capability.

The universal weapons system pylon is a derivative of the pylon system used on Bell's OH-58D Kiowa Warrior.

Bell introduced the 407GT at HELI-EXPO 2013, an industry exhibition in Las Vegas.