The EC665 Tiger, also known as Tigre in France and Spain, is a twin-engine attack helicopter manufactured by Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter). Its first flight occurred on April 27, 1991, and it entered service in 2003. This helicopter was initially conceived during the Cold War as an anti-tank platform but evolved into a multi-role attack helicopter following changes in the geopolitical landscape.
The Tiger features an all-composite airframe, contributing to reduced weight and radar cross-section. Its design incorporates a glass cockpit and aims for high agility, attributed to its four-bladed hingeless main rotor, which allows for advanced maneuvers. Power is provided by two MTU Turbomeca Rolls-Royce MTR390 turboshaft engines.
The EC665 Tiger is configured with a chin-mounted 30 mm cannon and can carry various weapons on its four hardpoints, including unguided rockets, air-to-air missiles (such as Mistral or Stinger), and anti-tank guided missiles (like Hellfire, Spike-ER, or PARS 3 LR), depending on the variant and operator. It is capable of armed reconnaissance, anti-tank operations, close air support, and escort missions in day or night and various weather conditions. The helicopter has been deployed in combat zones, including Afghanistan, Libya, and Mali.