US Chinook helicopter 'destroyed' (Afghanistan)

[bemildred]

An American Chinook helicopter has been destroyed by fire in southeast Afghanistan, US military say.

The incident, which happened late Wednesday, was not caused by hostile fire, the US says.

Coalition forces believe the aircraft caught fire after landing in difficult conditions in Spin Boldak, near the border with Pakistan.

Thirty one people, including six US troops and 25 Afghans, were said to be on board but no one was injured.

BBC

[cliss]

1. Hm, interesting..

"not caused by hostile fire".

It appears that the heli caught fire after landing? Difficult conditions? This is very strange.

I'm recalling the heli incident from about 2 weeks ago, also in Afghanistan. Note, that also happened near the border with Pakistan.

This just reinforces my personal theories about this war:

1) I don't have much faith in helicopters. Either they're poorly operated, or they've got equipment failures, or they're being shot down. The stats don't lie.
2) This war is not winnable.
3) Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are our REAL enemies, #1 & #2.

Thanks, B.

[bemildred]

2. Yeah, I'm surprised we don't lose more.

Although I do get the feeling that wear and tear is taking an increasing toll as time goes on.

You have to give props to the maintenance guys for keeping them together as well as they have.

[dArKeR]

3. "landing in difficult conditions" causes a fire?

I found this pic on the web. It sure looks to me like the last soldier in line is Tilman

[Skittles]

4. I am glad everyone got out OK

very glad