STORY BEHIND THE ARTWORK

"Centaur Cobras" by Artist Craig Tinder

Now available in two exclusive formats: a 30"x20" Hardwood Framed Canvas Edition - Limited to Only 20 and an 18"x12" Canvas (Framed or Unframed) - Limited to Only 30. Each art piece includes an AUTHENTIC RELIC, Certificate of Authenticity, and is hand-signed by the Artist. Quantities are extremely limited—Once They're Sold Out, They're Gone!

This Fine Art Print by Artist Craig Tinder honors the crews in Vietnam who flew the Bell AH-1 Cobra Gunship. 

The Story Behind the Print:

In August 1972, 1LT Kenneth R. "Ken" Mick flew his AH-1G Cobra Gunship (68-15012) in support of the 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. The skies of Vietnam had become increasingly perilous for U.S. helicopter pilots due to the introduction of the Soviet-made SA-7 "Strela" Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM). The SA-7, a shoulder-fired heat-seeking missile, posed a new and deadly threat to low-flying U.S. aircraft, which relied heavily on mobility and altitude for survival in combat.

To counter this emerging danger, the U.S. military implemented an "up-turned" exhaust modification and auxiliary scoop kit to reduce the heat signature of helicopters like the AH-1G Cobra, which would otherwise be an easy target for the SA-7’s heat-seeking technology. Cobra No. '012, piloted by 1LT Mick, was among the first combat Cobras to receive this upgraded suppression kit, significantly reducing the risk of missile attacks. This crucial modification diverted hot exhaust gases away from the aircraft's rear, making it harder for heat-seeking missiles to lock onto the aircraft's engine.

As Mick surveyed the dense and rugged Vietnamese landscape from the cockpit of his Cobra, his mission was to provide close air support and reconnaissance for ground troops. The Cobra, with its advanced firepower, including rockets and a 20mm cannon, was instrumental in these missions. The added protection of the suppression kit enabled Mick and his fellow pilots to engage enemy forces with greater confidence, knowing their aircraft were better equipped to evade the increasingly sophisticated threats of the battlefield. The retrofitting of these countermeasures to Cobras like Mick’s AH-1G represents a significant chapter in the evolution of combat aviation during the Vietnam War.

Visit the Journal to read the full story!

Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors

This item is handmade by artist, Craig Tinder. Available to ship worldwide!

ABOUT THE RELIC

This relic is an original component from the iconic AH-1 Cobra Gunship, a key attack helicopter that has served the U.S. military for decades. Specifically, this part (Part No. 205-060-873-001) comes from the aircraft's battery panel assembly, which played a crucial role in housing and protecting the helicopter's electrical power source. The panel retains its original paint, providing a unique snapshot of the Cobra's distinctive appearance during its time in service.AH-1 Cobra Gunship Battery Panel used as relic included in "Centaur Cobras" limited edition prints

Constructed from aluminum with a molded fiberglass backing, this component was designed to be both lightweight and durable, capable of withstanding the harsh conditions faced in combat environments. The use of fiberglass in its construction highlights the Cobra's advanced design, as the aircraft was known for combining agility with firepower, enabling it to serve as an effective gunship in both reconnaissance and attack missions.Artist, Craig Tinder, holding Cobra Gunship relic that is included in the "Centaur Cobras" limited edition prints

The AH-1 Cobra first saw action during the Vietnam War, where its reliability, speed, and firepower earned it a legendary status. Over time, it has been used in various conflicts around the world, including the Gulf War and operations in the Middle East. This relic serves as a tangible reminder of the aircraft’s enduring legacy and the role it played in modern military aviation.

MATERIAL & DISPLAY

PREMIUM ALUMINUM

Our newest presentation format delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail on a smooth gloss surface. The result has a luminous quality and clarity that is difficult to fully capture in photographs. Framed aluminum editions are finished in a solid black frame for a clean, contemporary presentation.

TRADITIONAL CANVAS

The original Aces In Action presentation features gallery-wrapped canvas, with framed editions presented in our traditional black floater frame. Canvas offers a classic, textured fine-art presentation and remains available on select Relic Artwork editions while inventory lasts.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; available framed or unframed
  • 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed
  • 36" × 12" (91.4 × 30.5 cm) — Panoramic Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed on select artwork

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready to hang. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.

THE RELIC ARTWORK EXPERIENCE

Authentic History

Each edition incorporates an authentic historical relic, presented on a custom laser-engraved Artifact Dock with details connecting the artifact to its history.

Handmade by Craig Tinder

Every Relic Artwork edition is assembled in Craig's studio, where it is signed, numbered, crafted, inspected, and prepared for its collector.

Made for Collectors

From the Certificate of Authenticity to the finished presentation, each detail is designed to create a collectible that preserves a tangible connection to history.