British Government Criticized for Insufficient Helicopters in Afghanistan

The British government has come under heavy criticism from opposition leader David Cameron for failing to provide sufficient helicopters to troops in Afghanistan. The issue has been exacerbated by a recent civilian helicopter crash that killed 16 people at the largest NATO base in southern Afghanistan. The situation has led to calls for better resourcing of the Afghan campaign, with former Defense Secretary John Hutton and General Sir Richard Dannatt also adding their voices to the debate.

Key Takeaways:

• David Cameron has criticized the government for failing to provide enough helicopters to British troops in Afghanistan, calling it a "scandal".
• The British military has over 500 helicopters, but less than 30 are currently in Afghanistan, leading to concerns about the government's commitment to protecting troops.
• The government has been offered a deal to purchase US-made Sikorsky helicopters, but decided to press ahead with plans involving British firms instead.
• The decision to prioritize long-term defense spending plans over the immediate equipment needs of frontline troops has been questioned by critics.
• General Sir Richard Dannatt has been outspoken about the need for better resourcing of the Afghan campaign, drawing attention from ministers and media scrutiny.
• The MoD has confirmed that a "shopping list" of requirements has been drawn up by the head of the Army, which includes requests for more helicopters and men.

Statistics:

• 16 people died in the recent civilian helicopter crash at southern Kandahar Air Field.
• 500 helicopters are in the British military, but less than 30 are currently in Afghanistan.
• 2,000 additional troops were reportedly requested by military chiefs, but this has been disputed by the Business Secretary, Lord Mandelson.
• 3 years have passed since David Cameron first warned about the need for more helicopters in Afghanistan.
• The number of British deaths in Afghanistan has risen to 16 in just two weeks.

Sources:

• Sky News' Sunday Live: David Cameron's full quote on the need for more helicopters in Afghanistan.
• The Guardian: Business Secretary Lord Mandelson's statement on the request for 2,000 additional troops.
• The Daily Telegraph: General Sir Richard Dannatt's statement on the need for better resourcing of the Afghan campaign.
• MoD statement: Confirmation of the offer to purchase US-made Sikorsky helicopters.
• BBC News: Nato statement on the crash of the Russian-owned Mi-8 helicopter.