Because the aircraft was already in service with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, it became the predictive favorite despite doubts that MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) could ramp up production to meet the contract's demands.
Karena pesawat itu sudah beroperasi dengan 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, pesawat ini menjadi favorit walaupun diragukan bahwa MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) dapat menjalankan produksi sesuai dengan kontrak.