Posted 8/7/2010
ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 2, 2010) An AH-1Z Cobra helicopter assigned to Rotary Wing Aircraft Test Squadron (HX) 21, based in Patuxent River, Md., approaches the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). This upgraded version of the Cobra is not yet available to the fleet. The helicopter features a larger engine and has two more blades than the Cobra's original two, giving it more power and maneuverability. Wasp is conducting test flight operations and was chosen as the platform to evaluate the limits and capabilities of newer models of aircraft. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rebekah Adler)