Environmental Development U.S. Army OH-58A Light Observation Helicopter

This paper will describe the steps taken during the development cycle of the OH-58A to generate a helicopter that would easily endure the severe environmental conditions that are a prime requirement of U. S. Army helicopters operating in close support of ground troops. Major areas to be covered include the development of a particle separator to protect the engine against dust, sand, ice, and debris, erosion, corrosion protection for the rotors and improvements in seals for protection of bearings against sand and water injestion. The intensive environmental testing, both laboratory and flight that was accomplished to refine the aircraft systems will be covered in detail. As a result of this comprehensive testing the U. S. Army OH-58A helicopter enjoys the highest reliability and lowest maintainability requirement of any helicopter in the Army inventory.