The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior is the US Army's fielded armed reconnaissance helicopter. The Kiowa Warrior is provided with a Mast Mounted Sight (MMS) with a tv System, Thermal Imaging system and Laser Rangefinder/Designator; Embedded global Positioning System Inertial Navigation System; airborne Target Handover System or Improved information Modem for digital communication, HAVEQUICK II UHF, two SINCGARS FMs, and VHF. The Kiowa includes two Universal Weapons Pylons for mounting a complete of two of the subsequent weapons systems: HELLFIRE missiles, Air-to-Air STINGER missiles, 2.75 inch Hydra 70 rockets, and/or a 50 caliber fixed machine gun.
The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior is the key to coordinating the Joint Air Attack Team (JAAT) efforts of the A-10 and AH-64. operating as an airborne command post, communications relay station and observation unit, the OH-58D will advise each the A-10's and the AH-64's about targets, terrain, enemy movements, potential issues with ground forces and air traffic conflicts.
