Is the Akula Worth It in GTA Online? Absolutely.
After extensive research and personal experience, I can definitively say the Akula is one of the best helicopter purchases you can make in GTA Online. The $3.7 million price tag may seem steep, but you get an unparalleled mix of speed, firepower, and stealth capabilities that make the Akula an invaluable aircraft for all kinds of missions and tasks.
Key Strengths Make the Akula a Top Tier Choice
Blazing Fast Speed
With a top speed of 160 mph, the Akula is one of the fastest helicopters in the game. For comparison, the Buzzard attack helicopter tops out at 135 mph. That extra 25 mph gives you a crucial edge for quick getaways and chases.
Powerful Stealth Abilities
The Akula‘s stealth mode completely takes you off the radar. You and your whole team become invisible to other players, allowing you to sneak up on targets or traverse the map undisturbed. No other weaponized helicopter has this huge tactical advantage.
Impressive Durability
The Akula can withstand a surprising amount of damage thanks to its armored fuselage. It can survive up to 4 homing rockets if they hit the main body and rotors separately. This gives you a solid chance to escape and repair.
Seats 4 Players
Unlike the Buzzard which can only fit 2, the Akula has room for a pilot and 3 passengers. This allows your entire squad to use it together.
Customizable Weapons Loadout
At your hangar workshop, you can customize the Akula‘s weapons to suit your playstyle. Options include homing missiles, salvo rockets, and even stealth-mode compatible machine guns.
How the Akula Stacks Up to Other Choppers
Here‘s how the Akula compares numerically to other top helicopters:
| Helicopter | Top Speed | Seating | Weapons | Armor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akula | 160 mph | 4 players | Homing missiles, guns | Can take ~4 rockets |
| Buzzard | 135 mph | 2 players | Homing missiles, guns | Can take ~3 rockets |
| Sparrow | 150 mph | 4 players | Homing missiles | Low armor |
| Savage | 120 mph | 5 players | Explosive cannon, guns | High armor |
As you can see, the Akula has a decisive edge over the competition in most areas. The extra speed and stealth give it unmatched utility.
Situations Where the Akula Shines
Transporting your team unseen – Go off radar and covertly move your squad across the map without detection.
Ambushing enemies – Use stealth mode to sneak up then blast targets before they even know you‘re there.
Escaping trouble – When being pursued, go off radar and flee at top speed.
Providing aerial support – Rain down missiles and gunfire to assist allies on the ground while resisting damage.
Taking out targets – Track down enemies, pop up from stealth and eliminate them before they can react.
Cargo collection/delivery – The speed and space allows you to quickly collect and transport goods.
Potential Drawbacks
-
$3.7 million price tag – One of the most expensive helicopters in the game.
-
Large profile – Easier target visually if your cover is blown.
-
Mediocre missiles – Homing missiles are decent but not as strong as some others.
-
Steep learning curve – Takes practice to master the sensitive handling.
The Verdict: Money Well Spent
While not cheap, I firmly believe the Akula is worth every dollar. Its stealth mode alone provides an invaluable edge that makes almost every mission easier. And with stellar speed, ample firepower, and space for 4, the Akula handles any task you throw at it. I use mine all the time and it quickly pays for itself. For players with the funds, the Akula should be one of your first helicopter purchases guaranteed. You‘ll wonder how you lived without it!