MD Helicopters MD 530 Little Bird Military Variant from Japan
The MD 530 Little Bird is a scout and light attack helicopter used in special operations with TOW missile capability. Under HTS 8802.11.01.15 for new military helicopters ≤2,000 kg unladen weight, its lightweight composite airframe fits the subheading perfectly. Excludes crew and fuel per legal definition.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Comply with AECA for defense articles; provide unladen weight verification from OEM
• Common issue: Misdeclaring demo models as military