The Royal Air Force told the people of Monifieth they do try to minimise disruption from low-level aircraft.
The comment came after a night-time incident over the Angus town in which a Chinook helicopter hovered “frighteningly close” to housing.
Brook Street resident Nichola Cecil said the helicopter flew very dangerously low over the houses at about 9pm on Thursday.
“Most people I have spoken to seemed to think it was in trouble however, it continued to fly over the beach for several hours afterwards.”
A Tay Street resident said the helicopter flew “frighteningly” close to her house, making her windows shake.
A Royal Air Force spokesperson said: “Chinook helicopters were operating from RAF Leuchars last week supporting essential pre-deployment training for 58 Squadron, RAF Regiment, who will be deploying overseas later this year.
“58 Squadron were training at Barry Buddon for their operational role to provide a specialist, air-minded force protection capability in support of overseas air operations.
“We endeavour to minimise the disruption to the local community during our exercise programmes and rely on the understanding and support of the public while our personnel conduct this training.”