US Army aviation has a tradition of operating in coastal areas dating back to Vietnam. They shared the skies with the renowned Sea Wolves and were a force to be reckoned with.
Fast forward to the 1980's and 90's and you have US Army aviation operating in the Persian Gulf.
The future for Army Aviation is a partner ship with the Navy. And they have the perfect tool to make it work...the OH-58F.
Littoral Combat requires the identification of targets in cluttered sea lanes. In marshes and canals...in green turning to brown water. The weapons and optical package found on the OH-58F makes it tailor made to this mission.
Its also a win for the US Army in the future. A rotation between Aviation Brigades would make it a perfect fit with training taking place with both Navy and Marine Units it shouldn't be a particular burden for any of the services. Additionally the skids on the OH-58F should make it a bit easier to handle on the deck of a pitching ship...a much better option than the AH-64...oh and did I mention that optics package?
Army Aviation is already a frequent visitor to Naval vessels in the form of the 160th...that role should be expanded.
If Sea Basing is about being a joint force then this integration of Army Aviation onboard LCS' and Burke Destroyers should be a no brainer.
NOTE:
This proposal only makes sense if my prediction of future budget cuts come true. In the environment I foresee, the Marine Corps will cut not to 175,000 but to 150,000 when all is said and done. The Army will be equally savaged and the services will not be seeking to expand capabilities but simply to maintain competencies. Putting Army Scout Helicopters on US Navy warships will keep them 'gainfully' employed, will act as a cost effective Fire Scout replacement (which I see getting axed if not this year then next) and will provide aerial observation and guns in an area in which Marine Aviation will already be stretched just to maintain current and projected operating tempos.
