The MH-6 is a little helicopter that packs a big punch.
"Little Bird"
The MH-6 is a light observation helicopter that has been modified into a deadly attack helicopter. The helicopter is a modified OH-6A aircraft designed by the Boeing Co. Known as a "Little Bird" among the U.S. military, the name masks the helicopter's substantial firepower. The MH-6 helicopter has been outfitted with a 30 millimeter M230 chain gun, two 7.62 millimeter M134 mini-guns, FIM-92 Stinger missiles, and AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles.
The MH-6 attack helicopter entered service with the U.S. military in 1980. There have been many versions of the aircraft produced over the years. The current version in service with the U.S. military is the MH-6M helicopter. It can travel at 175 miles per hour and has a crew of only two people – a pilot and co-pilot. However, the MH-6M can also carry up to six passengers.
Attack Missions
The MH-6 helicopter is primarily used for attack missions. However, it can also be used for personnel transport, emergency evacuations, aerial observations and as an escort. The aircraft’s light weight and small size make it extremely agile and easy to manoeuvre in combat situations. This combined with its impressive firepower make the MH-6 Little Bird a deadly aircraft that is feared by foreign militaries around the world.
Since entering service, the MH-6 helicopter has been used by the U.S. military in countries ranging from Grenada and Nicaragua to Iraq and Somalia. In 2009, U.S. Navy Seals used MH-6 helicopters to rout terrorists operating in Somalia. The aircraft has been part of numerous missions in Iraq since 2003. The MH-6 helicopter is most often deployed with the U.S. Special Forces.