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 🇺🇸 United States
Category Military Helicopters
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 🇫🇷 France
Category Military Helicopters
Manufacturer Aérospatiale
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
Length 9.4 m
Maximum speed 282 km/h
Operational range -- km
Service ceiling 4,877 m
Max. takeoff weight 1,361 kg
Empty weight 672 kg
Total thrust 1 x 313 kW
Wingspan 10.5 m
Height 3.2 m
Length 11.9 m
Maximum speed 310 km/h
Operational range 670 km
Service ceiling 4,450 m
Max. takeoff weight 2,100 kg
Empty weight 1,009 kg
Total thrust 1 x 650 kW

Performance Radar Chart