Most defensive shields use one of two methods for detecting incoming fire: (1) Targeting radar signature from the inbound weapon or (2) Defensive radar skin-paints originating from the aircraft or other platforms (like AWACs).
Given that the helicopter appears to have been shot down by a "rocket", by which I believe they mean an RPG, only the second solution would help, and that is limited by the distance from the shooter and the speed of the projectile. It's good to keep in mind that Goliath was felled by a kid with a sling and a rock. The same principle is at work here - even an archaic weapon like a bolt-action rifle can be used to make a lucky shot.
I don't believe there will ever be invulnerability for our troops and their platforms, especially for helicopters. Helicopters, after all, don't really fly - they beat the air into submission!
I don't believe there will ever be invulnerability for our troops and their platforms, especially for helicopters. Helicopters, after all, don't really fly - they beat the air into submission!You and the others here are right, I'm sure. I'm just feeling frustrated today. Not by the war itself, which I think overall is going very well, but by the thought of any of our guys getting hit. But I know. It happens.
One of the good things coming out of this war is that our already way-superior military is getting even better at dealing with all the slings and arrows of outrageous modern guerrilla warfare.
Practice makes perfect.
And although invulnerability is unachievable, as you point out, the military supremacy of the US just keeps growing, and wars stimulate its growth, they don't impede it.