MD Helicopters supplying attack aircraft to Malaysia

MESA, Ariz., Feb. 2 (UPI) -- MD Helicopters has won a contract to supply six MD 530G Scout Attack Helicopters to Malaysia's Army beginning late this year.

The MD 530G features advanced avionics, an integrated onboard stores management system, a forward-looking infrared sensor, guided and unguided rockets, and inboard .50 caliber machine guns.

A custom weapons package, advanced communications capabilities and state of the art EO/IR to detect, identify, and engage a wide range of threats will be included for Malaysia, MD Helicopters said.

It is expected the aircraft will be deployed to perform attack, ISR, and security missions in support of the Malaysian Army's operations in the Eastern Sabah Security Command.

MD Helicopters said it is committed to advancing Malaysian capabilities regarding the helicopters' long-term service and support and will work with Malaysian partners in that regard.