A129 Mangusta / T129 ATAK vs AH-1Z Viper: how to tell them apart

Two military helicopters that are easy to mix up at a glance. Here is what tells them apart.

A129 Mangusta / T129 ATAK

Military helicopter, Italy. In service since 1990

What gives it away

Slim attack helicopter with stepped tandem cockpits, stub wings and a gun turret under a narrow chin.

Used by

Italy, Turkey, Philippines

AH-1Z Viper

Military helicopter, USA. In service since 2010

What gives it away

Very narrow fuselage, tandem cockpit, four-blade rotor, stub wings with missile rails at the tips.

Used by

USA, Bahrain, Czech Republic

A129 Mangusta / T129 ATAK · AH-1Z Viper · All guides