The AH-1 Cobra (Bell 209) is a classic attack helicopter, utilizing many components from its "older brother," the UH-1 Huey. The first flight of the AH-1 prototype took place on September 7, 1965, and the helicopter entered mass production that same year. During the Vietnam War, 1,126 G-model helicopters were produced, of which 279 were lost in combat. Due to its very high design reliability, small side profile, and good performance, the helicopter remains in service with the United States Marine Corps to this day.