160th SOAR Pilot Recounts His First Minigun Kill 🤯

Published on December 5, 2025
Duration: 0:45

This entry details a 160th SOAR pilot's account of neutralizing a Scud TEL launcher in Western Iraq using an MH-60L DAP helicopter equipped with an M134 Minigun. The narrative highlights the intense, low-altitude engagement, emphasizing the critical decision-making process and the effectiveness of the minigun in a close-proximity scenario. The pilot's first-hand combat experience and technical knowledge underscore the high-stakes nature of Special Operations missions.

Quick Summary

A 160th SOAR pilot recounts neutralizing a Scud TEL launcher in Western Iraq using an MH-60L DAP helicopter armed with an M134 Minigun. The intense, low-altitude engagement at around 62 feet required precise flying and tactical weapon selection, with FLIR confirming the hits on the target.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Mission Context: Neutralizing Scuds in Iraq
  2. 00:06Aircraft and Target Acquisition
  3. 00:16Engaging with the Minigun
  4. 00:28Visual Confirmation and Altitude

Frequently Asked Questions

What aircraft was used in the mission to neutralize Scud missiles?

The pilot was flying a Direct Action Penetrator (DAP) version of the Black Hawk helicopter, specifically the MH-60L DAP, which is a specialized variant equipped for direct action missions.

What weapon system was used to destroy the Scud TEL launcher?

The pilot utilized the M134 Minigun, firing 7.62x51mm NATO rounds, to engage and neutralize the Scud TEL launcher due to the close proximity of the target.

What were the key challenges during the engagement?

The primary challenges included operating at an extremely low altitude of approximately 62 feet, identifying the Scud TEL target, and managing the intense dive required for engagement while avoiding collision.

What technology was used for target confirmation?

Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) footage was used to confirm that the minigun rounds were hitting the Scud launcher, providing visual verification of the engagement's success.

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