MD Helicopters expands presence in Indo-Pacific, eyes potential customers
Malaysia operates six MD-530G helicopters and MD Helicopters is targeting supplementary sales of the current AH530 series. (Photo: Malaysian Armed Forces)
MD Helicopters is looking to enhance its presence in the Indo-Pacific, with several countries in the region identified as potential customers, said Howard Berry, senior sales director for MD Helicopters.
Speaking to Shephard, Berry said that the company was looking to refocus sales efforts in the region, given that the current TH530 trainer and AH530 Light Attack Scout helicopters would suit many countries due to their low cost and maintenance, with a less than one maintenance hour/flight hour ratio.
He added that for more advanced capabilities, the AH530 Block II with the Hellfire air-to-ground missile and the Advanced Precision Kill
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
DSEI 2025: Drone Evolution eyes UK and export markets with Scimitar FPV drone
Launched at DSEI 2025 for the first time, the first-person-view uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) is available as 10-inch and 7-inch variant, ideal for surveillance or one-way strike missions.
-
Proteus: forging the future of autonomous rotorcraft
As the home of British helicopters, Leonardo has worked with the UK Ministry of Defence for over a decade to advance technologies underpinning uncrewed rotorcraft. Today, in partnership with DE&S Future Capabilities Innovation and the Royal Navy, Leonardo is spearheading the next step in that journey: from remotely piloted technologies to fully autonomous systems.
-
Insight: What future remains for the E-7 Wedgetail aircraft?
The surveillance aircraft from Boeing is deployed by various countries, most notably the Royal Australian Air Force; but ongoing setbacks for future customers, who cite rising costs and delays, have thrown the aircraft into the spotlight.
-
India fast-tracks helicopter procurement with dual RFIs for 276 platforms
India has issued urgent RFIs for more than 270 reconnaissance, surveillance and utility helicopters across its services, signalling a systemic overhaul of rotary-wing capabilities with a renewed emphasis on indigenous production and technology transfer.
-
US combat drone plan rushes forward with first flight and selection in FY2026
The US Department of Defence (DoD) previously selected Anduril Industries and General Atomics to develop production-representative prototypes under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme. A competitive Increment 1 production decision is expected in FY2026.