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| A U. S. Marine Corps AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 367 provides security as two CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 463, Marine Aircraft Group 24 (MAG-24) perform a mid-air refuel demonstration from a C-130 Hercules aircraft during the 2012 Kaneohe Bay Airshow at Marine Corps Air Station, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Sept. 30, 2012. MAG-24 took part in the three-day event featuring performances and demonstrations by both civilian and military aircraft. (DoD photo by Lance Cpl. Kevin Jones, U. S. Marine Corps /Released) |
The above pic shows why I believe that the attack helicopter is on the way out when it comes to Marine Corps operations. Every platform except for the Attack and Utility helos can be refueled in air extending there range. The reach of the MEU can be extended by utilizing KC-130's and eventually by using the MV-22 in the aerial refueling role. The AH-1Z will be the last attack helicopter in Marine Corps service.
