KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – As the demand for security support increases in the Dand District, the use of helicopters to sling load equipment and supplies has proven to be a viable addition to combat logistic patrols conducted by Soldiers of Delta Forward Support Company from the 10th Mountain Division’s 1st Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment.

The helicopter has been a work horse for the Army for nearly fifty years. More recently helicopters have been used in Northern Afghanistan as the primary means of delivering supplies due to the mountainous terrain that restricts vehicle movement.

Although terrain is less of an issue in the southern regions of the country, helicopters are considered a useful and safer alternative of lightering equipment to various outposts. The command has taken a more cautious approach to the distribution of goods that the squadron needs to sustain its daily operations.

The recent addition of Central Canadian Air at Kandahar Airfield has become key to augmenting resupply operations that have reduced the number of ground convoys to outlying garrisons, or Strong Points.

This reduction has made a significant impact on Soldiers traveling the roads of Southern Afghanistan. It has decreased the stress of back to back missions as well as diminished the opportunity for improvised explosive device (IED) strikes.
“It may be some early mornings rigging these loads,” said Staff Sgt. Brian Walsh. “But if it saves even one of our guys from getting hurt then it is definitely worth it.”

Another benefit to sling load is the ability to reach the Strong Points much faster than by ground.

The success of Afghan National Security Forces and their International Security Force partners will help earn the respect and trust of the residents of the district.

Achieving this will be greatly enhanced by minimizing the exposure of troops to the dangers of navigating areas known for frequently place IED’s.

There will always be a need for the ground convoys to deliver cargo and provide transportation for Soldiers traveling to and from Kandahar Airfield, but this operation will help mitigate some of the risk to troops.