The Chief Executive of Afghanistan, Abdullah Abdullah, told reporters that the Afghan government has asked the United States to accelerate the training and equipping of Afghan pilots.
“Afghan MI-17 and AN-26” by Petty Officer 1st Class David M. Votroubek – http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=images/images_gallery.php&action=viewimage&fid=69644. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons.
The emphasis is placed on aeromedical evacuations and close air support. The recent arrival of six armed MD530F helicopters has augmented the close air support mission considerably.