Arming Navy Helicopters for the 21st Century

Throughout the history of naval rotary wing aviation, aircrews have had to adapt to expanding missions and changing threats. As our Navy transforms to meet the challenges of 21st century, helicopters will continue to play a critical warfighting role. Despite the obvious requirement, few Navy helicopters are equipped to execute the missions they are tasked to accomplish. By arming less than a quarter of the fleet, the Helicopter Concept of Operations (CONOPS) does little to resolve this shortfall. It is time Navy leadership break the paradigm, envision the Navy helicopter as a combat platform and equip it appropriately. We must arm all Navy helicopters with robust and flexible weapon systems so they can respond to the demands of 21st century warfare.