What makes you think that in the last forty years no-one else has thought about this?
What makes you think that what you suggest is not being done?
What makes you think that there are no helo's on task?
What makes you think that you can demonstrate security when it isn't secure enough to go in and out your own front door?
How do you interact with the population if you helo everywhere?
There are many more tasks that have to be carried out by these helos in addition to what you suggest. Convoys will still be required to deliver stores in sufficient quantities as are required.
This is not a north/south gooks all out war, this is an insurgency amongst local populations that may or may not be sympathetic in either direction!
There are very many tried and tested tactics and techniques being employed but it doesnt change the fact that the lads on the ground have to demonstrate a presence in order to establish a secure environment.
Your offer of cash for helos is comendable but if I had $500 spare then I might think that as good a use might be in making some of our brave lads whom have been injured a little bit more comfortable.
IMHO HEDP