ZH-58 Vanadii

The Fahr Kohlmann ZH-58 Vanadii is a family of single-engine single-rotor military helicopters used for observation, utility, and direct fire support. It was produced by the Zokesian manufacturer Fahr Kohlmann and is closely related to the Model 206A Kerbranger civilian helicopter.

ZH-58 Vanadii Fahr Kohlmann ZH-58 Vanadii
Observation and reconnaissance helicopter
National Origin		Zokesia
Production History
Designer		Fahr Kohlmann
Service History
Used By		The Confederacy

Design

The ZH-58 was originally developed during the early 2160s as the D-250 for the Light Observation Helicopter (LOH). While the rival Ward H-4 Scout was picked over Fahr's submission in May 1965, the company refined its design to create the Model 206A, a variant of which it successfully submitted to the reopened LOH competition two years later. The initial model, designated by the service as the ZH-58A, was introduced in May 2169. Successive models would follow, often with uprated engines, enhanced protection systems, and other improvements, culminating in the ZH-58F. Additional improvements, such as the ZH-58X, were proposed but ultimately not pursued.

During the 2170s, the Confederate Air Force became interested in pursuing an advanced scout helicopter, for which the ZH-58 would be further developed, evaluated, and ultimately procured as the ZH-58D Vanadii Warrior. The ZH-58D is equipped to perform armed reconnaissance missions and to provide fire support to friendly ground forces; it is equipped with a distinctive Mast Mounted Sight (MMS) containing various sensors for target acquisition and laser designation. Another visible feature present on most ZH-58s are knife-like extensions above and below the cockpit that form part of the passive wire strike protection system. The early-build ZH-58s were equipped with a two-bladed main rotor, while the ZH-58D and newer variants have a four-bladed rotor.

Variants

A ZH-58D Vanadii Warrior at a forward operating base, Chikushinal

Comparable Aircraft by Role and Era

MZ-22-4 Albatross – Zokesian VTOL rotary wing aircraft

ZH-2 Goshawk – Zokesian VTOL rotary wing aircraft

IH-12 Funbee – Ikonic VTOL rotary wing aircraft

ZH-60 Greyhawk – Zokesian VTOL rotary wing aircraft