Warplanes: February 21, 2000

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The U.S. army wants to drastically reorganize it's helicopter fleet. Five years ago, the plan was to have 4,200 choppers, now the target is 3,600, with most of the light "scout" helicopters being dropped. This is largely because the latest attack helicopters, like the Apache Longbow and Comanche, have much improved electronics that do away with the need for scout helicopters. The new plan also calls for fewer of the new Comanches, only 713, instead of 1,197. Thus there would also be more of the successful UG-60 Blackhawks and Apaches. The U.S. army has the largest helicopter fleet in the world, and the largest amount of experience with helicopters in combat.