Five UH-72s To Be Used For Pilot Training

In a major affirmation for EADS North America's Light Utility Helicopter program, the US Navy has become a new military user of the UH-72, with the service ordering five aircraft for use in pilot training at the Naval Test Pilot School at Patuxent River, MD.

With this new acquisition, the Navy joins the active Army and the Army National Guard in acquiring UH-72 Lakotas – underscoring the twin-engine helicopter’s versatility in a full range of operational missions and applications. The Navy’s firm fixed-price order is valued at more than $24 million. Deliveries are scheduled from October 2009 through January 2010.

"The US Navy contract is a further validation of the UH-72’s versatility and mission capability, and confirms EADS North America’s capacity to perform as a top-tier military supplier," said Ralph D. Crosby, EADS North America’s Chairman and CEO. "We have delivered over 40 Lakotas on time and on budget to the Army and National Guard, and are committed to continuing this high standard of performance with the Navy."

UH-72A Lakota helicopters have been in the US Army inventory since late 2006. To date, over 40 aircraft are operating with Army and Army National Guard units across the country.

More than 350 Lakotas are currently planned for acquisition by the Army through 2017, with mission responsibilities ranging from homeland security to support and logistics missions. Lakota deliveries to the Army and National Guard currently average three to four helicopters per month, with the capacity to reach five UH-72s monthly.

FMI: www.eadsnorthamerica.com, www.navy.mil