If it wasn't so sad, it would almost be funny. Long time ago in a hot steamy land, far-far away (To borrow a phrase...) My rich Uncle Samuel did the samething. They took a utility helicopter and hung rockets and guns on it, creating the first dedicated gunship.
First Guns-A-Go-Go CH 47s are resructed, and now the original escort gunship is back. I guess the more things change, the more they stay the same.
I can see it coming...a 4 bladed, twin engine UH-1M to be introduced by Bell for the light weight, low cost, cheap to keep, COIN market.
Able Audacious Army Aviation Above All!