USAF Provides Four MD-530 Helicopters To Afghanistan

The US Air Force this week has delivered the final four of 27 MD-530 Cayuse Warrior helicopters to the Afghan air force in the capital city of Kabul.

The helicopters arrived to Afghanistan from Travis Air Force Base in California aboard a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.

Similar to previously shipped five MD-530s in July, these new helicopters have the capacity to fire rockets or 50-caliber machine guns.

The new helicopters also have a new sighting system that was not equipped to initial 13 helicopters, said Lt. Col. Bill Ashford, USAF 438th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron commander in a statement today.

"The first 13 helicopters continue to be modified to support 2.75-inch rocket capabilities and add the improved sighting systems," he added.

The MD-530 light helicopter is operated by a one- or two-person crew, and has a maximum speed of 175 miles per hour, and a range of 375 miles.

"The MD-530s are flying multiple missions a day across Afghanistan," said Ashford.

"They are often engaged in providing aerial escort to convoys, providing over-watch to ANDSF operations and responding to 'troops in contact' situations." Ashford added.

The MD 530F helicopter features modular design and FAA-certified, high-capacity, extended landing gear. The airframe is attached with tinted doors and windows on the left and right sides.