The Netherlands has sent six Boeing NAH-64DApache attack helicopters to the Afghan capital Kabul for a six-month deployment in support of the International Security Assistance Force. The Dutch government last January decided to deploy the 1st Dutch Helicopter Detachment to Afghanistan with 135 support personnel.
The first three helicopters left Gilze-Rijen airbase on 29 March aboard an Antonov Airlines An-124 transport, with the support element travelling on a Boeing 757 of the Dutch charter airline Dutchbird. After a stopover in Termez, Uzbekistan, personnel completed their journey to Kabul on a Dutch air force Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules. A second An-124 left the Netherlands two days later with the three remaining Apaches.
Two aircraft will be held on quick reaction alert to provide air support for ground units. A further two will conduct aerial reconnaissance and provide protection for convoys and transport helicopters. The remaining two aircraft will be held as operational and technical reserves.
Source: Flight International