The Malaysian Defense Ministry will receive six 530G light scout attack helicopters from American aerospace manufacturer MD Helicopters by the end of the first quarter of 2022.
The company announced on Thursday that the military aircraft has successfully passed initial acceptance, and a total of eight Malaysian pilots have completed training in West Texas.
Designed to provide enhanced agility and firepower, the 530G light scout attack helicopter is equipped with Raytheon’s 70-millimeter TALON laser-guided rocket to neutralize lightly armored targets.
The aircraft is powered by a Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine, allowing it to fly at a maximum cruising speed of 240 kilometers (149 miles) per hour at sea level. It can also operate for two and a half hours with an auxiliary fuel tank.
MD Helicopters revealed that it applied several configurations to the attack helicopter, including integration of the Wescam L3 MX10D sensor and the Pathfinder Ares Weapons Management System.
Additionally, the aircraft is equipped with systems to support the Dillion M134 Mini-Gun, FN Herstal Heavy Machine Gun, and 2.75-inch Folding-Fin Aerial Rockets, providing “outstanding” reconnaissance and close-in support during night and day operations.
‘Providing Land, Maritime Security’
Destini Prima senior vice president Ek Sing Nguong said that the Southeast Asian nation is pleased and excited to accept the delivery of the 530G light scout attack helicopters from the US.
“It is with great excitement that we are able to take this program to the next stage,” Nguong said. “We look forward to the equipment’s arrival in Kuala Lumpur to complete the in-country final acceptance training.”
Meanwhile, MD Helicopters vice president Duncan Koerbel noted that the 530G continues to build on the “outstanding history” of the company’s light scout attack platform, and it could bring the best value and performance to the Malaysian military.
He further stated that the aircraft is mission-ready, agile, and easy to maintain, accumulating over 27 million flight hours in total.
“MD Helicopters is pleased to be a part of helping the Malaysian government provide land and maritime security,” Koerbel remarked.