MD-500 vs SA340 Gazelle

American light helicopter, renowned during the Cold War era, predominantly deployed for law enforcement and utility applications.
Picture of MD-500
Origin country πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ United States
Category Military Helicopter
Manufacturer Hughes
First flight 28 January 1982
Year of introduction 1967
Number produced 4700 units
Average unit price $4 million
French light utility helicopter, known for its extensive use in military and civil applications since its 1960s introduction.
Picture of SA340 Gazelle
Origin country πŸ‡«πŸ‡· France
Category Military Helicopter
Manufacturer AΓ©rospatiale
First flight 7 April 1967
Year of introduction 1971
Number produced 1775 units
Average unit price $1.7 million
Wingspan -- m
Height 2.6 m β—‰
Length 9.4 m β—‰
Maximum speed 282 km/h β—‰
Operational range -- km
Service ceiling 4,877 m β—‰
Max. takeoff weight 1,361 kg β—‰
Empty weight 672 kg β—‰
Total thrust 1 x 313 kW β—‰
Wingspan 10.5 m
Height 3.2 m β—‰
Length 11.9 m β—‰
Maximum speed 310 km/h β—‰
Operational range 670 km
Service ceiling 4,450 m β—‰
Max. takeoff weight 2,100 kg β—‰
Empty weight 1,009 kg β—‰
Total thrust 1 x 650 kW β—‰

Performance Radar Chart