FHI UH-2 (UH-X / Bell 412EPI)

History

The Japanese Self-Defense Force (JSDF) has chosen the Bell V-22 Osprey and the Bell 412 helicopter for their military needs. This decision ensures cost-effective and timely delivery, with the Bell products being produced locally by Fuji Heavy Industries. This move secures Fuji's position in the Japanese rotorcraft market. Fuji has a history of working with Bell and produced the famous UH-1 "Huey" transport helicopter during the Vietnam War era.

The Bell 412, based on the earlier Bell 212, features a four-blade composite main rotor and has been in service since 1981. Fuji has been using the Bell 412 since 2009 and secured new orders in 2015 due to its proven track record and commitment to performance.

The Bell 412 also served as the basis for the Canadian Army's CH-146 "Griffin" series. Fuji has made local improvements to the UH-1H, now known as the UH-1J, with enhancements like twin engines, vibration reduction systems, night vision goggle mounts, and infrared-based countermeasures. This choice means that the Huey series will continue to be in production and in service for over 55 years since its introduction to the U.S. military.

Specification

Foundation

Year of Service: 2022

Origins: Japan

Status: Active

Crew: 2

Production: 1

Manufacturer: Subaru (Fuji Heavy Industries - FHI) - Japan / Bell Helicopter - USA

Carrier: Japan

Roles

Ground attack (bombing, strafing)

The ability to conduct air strikes against ground targets using (but not limited to) artillery, bombs, rockets, rockets, etc.

Disable support (CAS)

Designed to operate near active ground elements with a wide range of air-to-surface weapon and ammunition options.

Transportation

General transport function for moving supplies/cargo or people (including casualties and VIPs) out of range.

Dimensions and Weight

Length: 55.8 feet (17.00m)

Width/span: 45.9 feet (14.00m)

Height: 14.8 feet (4.50m)

Cured weight: 6,790 lbs (3,080 kg)

MTOW: 11,905 lbs (5,400 kg)

Wgt Difference: +5,115 lbs (+2,320 kg)

Performance

Installed: 2 x Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6T (T400) turboshaft engines, each producing 1,000 hp, driving a four-blade main rotor and a two-blade tail rotor.

Maximum speed: 162 km/h (260 km/h | 140 knots)

Maximum: 20,013 feet (6,100 m | 4 km)

Area: 609 km(980 km | 1,815 nautical miles)

Rate of climb: 1,350 ft/min (411 m/min)

ARMOR

Optional (hypothetical): Supports rockets, cannons, and door cannons, depending on the mission.

VARIANTS

Subaru-Bell UH-X - Original project name; revised to XUH-2.

Subaru-Bell XUH-2 - Modify the project name according to the UH-X naming convention.

Model 412EPIModel 412EPX - Commercial market version of UH-X.