Story ID: 
MD Helicopters Signs 12-ship Deal 
By: Mark Huber
Caption: MD Helicopters has signed a deal for new and upgraded aircraft
Word Count: 150
MD Helicopters (MDH) received a contract from an unnamed Middle Eastern customer to provide six Cayuse Warrior Plus Attack/Scout aircraft with precision weapons capability and six MD530F glass-cockpit upgrades. The 12 aircraft will support counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations by providing area security, tactical reconnaissance, convoy escort, and drug interdiction throughout the country.
The armed MD530F aircraft will receive glass-cockpit upgrades at MDH in Mesa, Arizona. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2024 for all 12 aircraft and the deal includes initial provisions, spares, and pilot and maintainer training. The Plus version features mission enhancements that include the precision weapons system, improved avionics, and armor.
“We are honored for the trust ally forces have put in us to provide safe, reliable assets for their security missions,” said Brad Pederson, MDH president and CEO. “We are excited to showcase the capabilities of this purpose-built, best-value solution.”