by Chris Pocock
The Malaysian Army is the launch customer for the latest version of the MD530 Scout attack helicopter made by MD Helicopters in the U.S. Deliveries of six MD530Gs will start in the fourth quarter and be complete by the end of the first quarter 2017. The MD530G has a beefed-up landing gear to support a maximum gross takeoff weight (MGTOW) of 3,750 pounds, allowing additional fuel and weapons.
In Malaysia’s case, AIN understands that the weapons will include a Dillon Aero M134 minigun, which is believed to be a key reason for the buy. The Malaysian Army already operates 10 Finmeccanica (formerly AgustaWestland) AW109 helicopters armed with a side-mounted gun. But the new fleet of MD530Gs will be operated in Sabah, East Malaysia, which has faced significant security issues.
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