Iran may have upgraded its SeaCobras, but they're no match for the Israeli Airforce
Tehran’s Panha 2091 Toufan upgrades transform AH-1J SeaCobras into modern combat platforms, but they're no match for the Israeli air force.

Iranian media and local sources have detailed the transformation of Iran’s aging fleet of AH-1J SeaCobra attack helicopters, originally acquired from the U.S. before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, through the Panha 2091 Toufan upgrade program. Developed by Bell in the 1960s as the world’s first dedicated attack helicopter, the Cobra became a backbone of Iran’s air force and later its army aviation unit.
Facing international sanctions that crippled maintenance and spare parts access post-revolution, Iran launched an ambitious domestic program to overhaul, upgrade, and locally produce components for its Cobra fleet, making it one of the largest operators outside the U.S.
The Toufan upgrade significantly enhances the AH-1J’s combat capabilities, including improved cockpit armor, advanced avionics with GPS integration, an ergonomic cockpit redesign, and a nose-mounted camera for better targeting and identification. A radar warning receiver (RWR) with four antennas provides 360-degree coverage, while the helicopter retains its 20mm M197 Gatling cannon and can carry 70mm and 127mm unguided rockets. Reports suggest Iran attempted to equip the Cobra with air-to-air missiles like the AIM-9 Sidewinder and Iranian-made Misagh-2, as well as anti-tank missiles like TOW and AGM-65 Maverick. Structural changes include a slimmer airframe for improved maneuverability and bulletproof glass for pilot protection.
Despite technological challenges and sanctions, the Toufan project has revitalized Iran’s Cobra fleet, keeping these helicopters relevant in modern warfare. They remain a critical component of Iran’s rotary-wing strike force, showcasing Tehran’s ability to sustain its military capabilities under isolation.
But, in any realistic engagement, the Israeli Air Force would overwhelmingly defeat Iran’s AH-1J Toufan helicopters. The IAF’s advanced fighters, drones, air defenses, and intelligence capabilities outclass the Cobras’ limited speed, range, and outdated technology. Iran’s helicopters are better suited for ground support against less sophisticated adversaries (e.g., insurgents) but cannot compete with Israel’s air superiority and integrated military systems. The IAF’s proven ability to strike Iranian targets with precision and minimal resistance ensures it would dominate in a conflict scenario.
Update: The Israeli Air Force just destroyed three additional combat helicopters at a military base in the Karamanshah area.