KABUL, Afghanistan - The NATO Military Budget Committee has approved funding to contract more cargo helicopters within Afghanistan.
Once awarded, the new contract will provide a fleet of helicopters to help establish a robust network of aerial resupply throughout Afghanistan. The helicopters will be employed to move military supplies, but the helicopters will not be used in combat operations. This critical mission will support the more than 41,000 troops in theatre.
Airlift remains a vital asset to Afghanistan reconstruction because of the current road conditions and terrain in the country. The mountainous terrain impedes maneuver of troops and supplies and the remoteness of some locations makes airlift the best method of transportation.
"In any campaign, helicopters are always in short supply and we welcome the initiative that will free up military helicopters to continue to provide mobility to ISAF and Afghan forces," said Maj. Gen. Freek Meulman, Deputy Commander for Air, ISAF. "These airframes are vital part of providing stability and security to Afghanistan."
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