MD 530G Scout completes live fire qualifications

The MD 530G Scout attack helicopter has successfully completed Live Fire Qualification Exercises at Yuma Proving Grounds, Arizona, MD Helicopters announced on 20 August. The aircraft is on schedule to complete Certificate of Conformance by September 2014.

The testing saw the aircraft configured with the Moog Stores Management System (SMS), the Mace Aviation Extended Range Weapons Wing, FN Herstal Machine Gun Pods and Rocket Machine Pods, Dillon Aero M134D-H Mini-Gun, the L-3 Wescam MX-10D, and M260 rocket pod. 

During demonstrations, the aircraft fired .50 calibre and 7.62mm ammunition, as well as unguided and laser-guided rockets, including four Raytheon TALON Laser Guided rockets at distances ranging from 2km to 5km, each striking within 1.5m from centre of target.

Lynn Tilton, chief executive officer, MDHI, said: ‘The bold performance and target accuracy of the MD 530G aircraft during the Yuma firing exercise is a testament to the reliability of the combat-proven OH-6/530F airframe. Infused with modern technology and MD innovation, the agility and firepower that the MD 530G provides will be a game changer for our customers, allowing significant expansion in airborne combat capabilities.’

The MD 530G is being developed as a low cost gunship, with the aim of maximising mission versatility and capability. Designed for agile deployment with any rotary wing unit, the aircraft has cruise speeds in excess of 110kts, and increased capacity landing gear to support 3,750 max gross takeoff weight, allowing operators to utilise increased useful load for additional range, endurance, and weapons capabilities. 

Jason Reichard, director, Moog Integrated Defense Systems, said: ‘Moog's third generation weapon SMS' small size, weight and power, along with its modularity and affordability enables MD's customers to have a maximum interoperable loadout of weapons at their command featuring an easy to understand weapons status overlay that enables efficient and effective combat mission execution.

‘Additionally, our SMS mechanical, electrical and software design elements have been thoroughly tested at both the component and integrated system levels to verify and assure reliable performance in the harshest combat environments.’

Following Certificate of Conformance in September, the MD 530G programme will enter initial rate production in the Q4 2014.