Britain to boost helicopter strength

LONDON, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- British Defense Secretary John Hutton announced Thursday plans to increase helicopter forces to support the evolving security operations in Afghanistan.

Hutton addressed the British Parliament Thursday and said while the strength of the British helicopter presence in Afghanistan has increased by approximately 60 percent since 2006, more helicopter capacity was required to adequately support military operations, the British Ministry of Defense reported.

After a seven-month review of the equipment requirements needed by British military forces in Afghanistan, Hutton said current helicopter levels were inadequate. Hutton called for more than $100 million in helicopter procurement, along with other increases in helicopter capabilities.

"Putting our forces on the front line at the heart of everything we do is my priority," Hutton said in a statement.

"Crucial to that is making sure that we get the best kit to the people who need it, when they need it -- both in the short and long term. … We have increased the number of helicopter airframes and hours available to our commanders in Afghanistan by around 60 percent over the past two years, and will make a further significant increase in helicopter capacity in Afghanistan over the next two years."