External Fuel Tanks for Helicopters: The Ultimate Mission Enhancer? The Rest of the Story.

In many U.S. Army units, the tactical use of external extended range fuel tanks on AH-64 and UH-60 helicopters has become the rule as opposed to the exception. While these tanks were intended for temporary use to ferry the aircraft long distances, the lure of extended aircraft range and endurance has prompted many commanders to adopt the use of external fuel tanks as standard operating procedure (SOP). Through an analysis of mission, safety, and mechanical implications, this paper will attempt to highlight the positive aspects and surface some of the negative aspects of helicopter external tank use. Only by considering both the positive and negative aspects of external tanks use can an aviation commander make an informed decision as to the appropriate use of external tanks on his unit’s aircraft.