MH-60L Direct Action Penetrator / "AH-60L"

The MH-60L Direct Action Penetrator (DAP) is an MH-60L modified to mount a variety of offensive weapons systems. Its mission is to conduct attack helicopter operations utilizing area fire or precision guided munitions and armed infiltration or exfiltration of small units. It is capable of conducting direct action missions as an attack helicopter or has the capability to reconfigure for troop assault operations. In the direct action role, the DAP would not normally be used as a primary transport for troops or supplies because of high gross weight limits. The DAP is capable of conducting all missions during day, night, or adverse weather conditions.

The MH-60L DAP, also known informally as the "AH-60L," the upgrade of MH-60L was initiated in 1990 with the addition of forward looking infrared (FLIR), radar and standard UH-60 external stores support systems. Two Black Hawk equipped companies of 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment each had a MH-60K platoon and MH-60L DAP/AH-60L platoon. The MH-60L Direct Action Penetrator armaments included a variable mix of weapons, including 30mm chain guns, HELLFIRE missiles, 70mm rockets, and 7.62mm "Miniguns." 40mm grenade machine guns and .50 caliber machine guns had also been tested.