Netherlands examines SOF Air concept
The Netherlands Defence Helicopter Command (DHC) has begun working up plans to establish a Special Operations Forces (SOF) Air capability, officials have revealed to Shephard.
The decision to develop such a concept follows recent operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and Mali where the DHC was only capable of responding to 80% of SOF requests, according to Col Harold Boekholt, head of operations at the command. The new wing is expected to reach an initial operating capability by 2016.
‘DHC didn’t have SOF trained pilots but on the other hand, they were certified to conduct air assault operations. However, 20% of [SOF]
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