MD 500 MG Defender

The light attack helicopter built for agility and precision firepower

Overview

MD Helicopters United States ICAO: H500 1976–Present Active $3.5 million

The MD 500 MG Defender is a militarized variant of the MD 500 series tailored for light attack and reconnaissance roles. Compact and maneuverable, it has been used by military and security forces worldwide. The aircraft combines simplicity with effective weapon integration.

Live Fleet Activity (H500)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × One Allison 250-C20B
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
420 shp · 313 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
5
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
30 ft 9 in  ·  9.38 m
Tail height
8 ft 11 in  ·  2.71 m
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
26 ft 5 in  ·  8.05 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
3,000 lb  ·  1,350 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
1,000 lb  ·  450 kg
Fuel capacity
60 gal · 200 L · 200 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
117 kt  ·  135 mph  ·  217 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
318 nm  ·  370 mi  ·  590 km
Fuel burn
3.62 nm/gal  ·  1.77 km/L
Ceiling
13,800 ft  ·  4,200 m
Rate of climb
1,700 ft/min  ·  9 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Live fleet activity details

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Operational Context

MD 500 MG Defender — light armed reconnaissance helicopter

The MD 500 series originated from the Hughes 369 of the 1960s, a design known for its compact size and agility. The Defender variant introduced weapons integration for military customers, transforming the platform into a light attack helicopter. It entered service in the 1970s and has since seen export use.

Powered by an Allison 250 series turboshaft engine producing roughly 420 shaft horsepower, the MD 500 MG cruises at about 130 knots (240 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is approximately 3,000 pounds (1,360 kg). Armament options include machine guns, rocket pods, and guided missiles depending on configuration.

The aircraft’s small size and responsive handling make it well suited for reconnaissance and close support missions. It has served in various regional conflicts and security operations. The MD 500 MG Defender remains a notable example of a lightweight helicopter adapted for combat roles.