MD 500 Defender released by Nemeth Designs

Posted on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 05:32:15 GMT

One of the world's most successful and useful light turbine helicopters, the Hughes/McDonnell Douglas/MD Helicopters 500 series began life as Hughes won the US Army observation helicopter contest with the YOH-6A Cayuse, which first flew in February 1963.The engineering and certification designation for all military and civil variants of this helicopter type is Hughes Model 369. It was offered in basic five and seven seat configurations.

In 1970 the 500C followed with a more powerful turboshaft. From 1976 deliveries were of the 500D, an improved version with again a more powerful engine, a T-tail, and new five blade main and optional four blade tail rotors. The 500D was followed by the 500E from 1982 with recontoured nose and various interior improvements including greater head and leg room.

From 1984, when McDonnell Douglas acquired Hughes Helicopters, the Hughes name disappeared and the 500E and 530F were built as the MD-500E and MD-530F Lifter. Military variants are marketed under the MD-500 Defender name.

This add-on represents the 500D line with four variations:

• Military observation
• Military Special Forces attack/support
• Military SOAR personnel transport
• Civil passenger transport

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