At the sound of the alarm, the NH90 helicopter starts its engine and flies away on a rescue mission in Mali, in West Africa.

The NH Industries NH90 is a medium, twin-engined helicopter for multi-role military missions. It is being used in Mali as part of the MINUSMA. That is short for the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali.

As the HK G3 in 7.62×51 mm was replaced, the HK G36 in 5.56×45 mm became the standard Germany Army service rifle. As you know the G36 is about to be replaced in the next few years.

The medical team is assisted by two Air Marshalls.

Desert camouflage, HK G36 and the sidearm is probably a Heckler & Koch USP. The Ray Bans seems to be missing.

The G36 has been in service since 1997, and I’d say it looks more modern than that.

En route for MedEvac somewhere in Mali. Having a fast transport out of the danger zone is a great comfort for the people on the ground.

All photos by Jonas Weber, German Army.

In my next life I want to become an aerial door gunner, what about you?