The escort/support role was defined by the French army, and is for protecting transport helicopters (such as the four-nation NH-90) from other armed helicopters and light-armoured vehicles. For this, the HAP will carry a GIAT-developed 30mm nose-mounted gun (450 rounds, +/-90° azimuth, +/-30° elevation,) along with either four Mistrals and/or 68mm rockets. These can be operated through either the helmet-mounted displays, head-up display, or the gyro-stabilised roof-mounted sight, the latter containing an infra-red camera, TV, direct optics and laser range finder.
Source: Flight International
