DoD seeks further MD 530F helos for allies

[Zarvan]

The DoD is looking to equip allies with up to 120 MD 530F light attack and reconnaissance helicopters over a five-year period. The type is already fielded militarily by Afghanistan (pictured) and Saudi Arabia. Source: 438th Air Expeditionary Wing

The US Department of Defense (DoD) is looking to acquire up to 120 additional MD Helicopters Inc (MDHI) MD 530F Cayuse Warrior light attack and reconnaissance rotorcraft for allied operators, it was disclosed on the Federal Business Opportunities (FedBizOpps) website on 20 July.

The US Army’s Non-Standard Rotary-Wing Aircraft Project Office (NSRWA PO) is looking to purchase between six and 120 MD 530F platforms over five years to add to those previously acquired for Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia. The indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) procurements would be made for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and ‘pseudo-FMS’ cases over five one-year ordering periods.

According to the notification, the helicopters will be delivered with the Mission Equipment Package (MEP) and the Enhanced-MEP (E-MEP). The MEP comprises the FN Herstal Heavy Machine Gun Pod (HMP), featuring the company's M3 12.7 mm (.50 calibre) machine gun. This HMP, which will be carried on external weapons planks, has a rate of fire of 1,100 rds/min and a 400-round ammunition box. The E-MEP adds to this with the option for M151 70 mm rockets and M274 70 mm smoke rockets. The HMP has an effective range of about 1,900 m, while the 70 mm rockets allow the pilot to engage a target from more than four times this distance at some 8,000 m.

Further to the MEP and E-MEP, the helicopters will be delivered with electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors; an initial spares support package; and training. Transportation from the United States will be included also.

Neither the US Army nor MDHI had responded to a request for further information by the time Jane’s went to press, but as is usually the case with such procurements the helicopters will likely be spread across a number of operators.

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