Not necessarily tailwheel, it is after all a multi role helicopter. It may well fit the roles envisioned for it in other countries. It obviously doesn't fit the envisioned role in this country. Whether we do or don't get "ripped off" by US companies or not isn't really the point. Whoever the supplier is, the equipment should at least do the job it is bought for......... Keeping in mind of course, that this country has a sad history of speccing one thing, and then requiring changes and modifications to the design to encompass roles, uses and integration of equipment not envisioned by the manufacturers. Blame usually being apportioned to someone else, depending upon who you ask!!!