The McDonnell Douglas 01-6RB-II Observation Helicopter is a lightweight reconnaissance and observation helicopter developed for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). It was designed to succeed the OH-6D, manufactured under license by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and even bears a resemblance to the prior model.
Design[]
01-6RB-II Scout Helicopter observing JGSDF combat trials against Holly Security Services
The 01-6RB-II shares some visual similarity with the previous model, the OH-6D, but is different in several key ways. It is also important to note that there are two variants of the helicopter, a basic observation model and a scouting model. It is unclear if there is a model number difference between the two variants.
The 01-6RB-II has a four-seat cabin with provisions for two pilots and two observers. Most missions can be accomplished without dedicated observers, so the helicopter is usually flown with two pilots only, one acting as the observer. The tail boom has been enlarged and strengthened for additional stability and to make room for the directional nozzle at the tail, which replaces the conventional tail rotor of the OH-6D. While this adds mechanical complexity to the design, the directional nozzle allows for finer control of the aircraft's pitch and yaw, and is less susceptible to projectile weapons. Additionally, the ventral fin on the tail has been enlarged to further improve stability.
For propulsion, the O1-6RB-II replaces the OH-6D's aft-mounted single engine with a pair of engines mounted atop the fuselage. The movement of the engine location improves ease-of-maintenance and reduces cabin noise, and the installation of a second engine gives the aircraft greater survivability and more power.
Both models of the 01-6RB-II have provisions for belly-mounted equipment. The observation model typically makes use of this space to carry ordinance or cargo, as seen when a pair of helicopters dropped paint bombs on the HAL X-10 while in pursuit. The scout model, however, mounts a distinctive mechanical arm, which carries an advanced sensor pod. When not in use or when on the ground, the arm retracts.
While the observation model makes use of the same skid-type landing gear of the OH-6D, the scout model has completely redesigned landing gear. A tailwheel is mounted on the ventral stabilizer, and retractable main gear has been installed in new pods on the fuselage. The scout model also features new sensors and equipment that are not present on the observation model. A forward-facing sensor/radome has been installed on the nose, most likely carrying a weather radar, and a side-looking radar pod has been mounted atop the rotors, allowing the crew of the helicopter to monitor activity beyond visual range or in inclement weather.
Operational Use[]
The 01-6RB-II family of helicopters has been used in several key operations. Most notably, the type was deployed as part of the JGSDF force sent to track and recover the HAL-X10 unmanned labor after it went rogue. Other important operations, such as combat trials and training exercises, have had 01-6RB-IIs present.
Specifications (Scout Model)[]
General Characteristics
- Crew: 2-4
- Length: 7.32 m (24.02 ft)
- Width: 3.62 m (11.88 ft)
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 2,080 kg (4,585.62 lbs)
- Maximum Speed: 318 km/h (172 kts, 198 mph)
- Range: 495.2 km (267.4 nm, 307.7 mi)
- Service Ceiling: 6220 m (20,407 ft)
Armaments
- Sensor pod
- Weapon hardpoints (Observation Model only)
- Most commonly equipped with paint bombs, but capable of carrying conventional bombs and unguided rockets if necessary.
Gallery[]
.jpg "Img0044 (Heli).jpg (390 KB)")
.jpg "Img0048 (Heli).jpg (401 KB)")