AFA Applauds Award to Replace Aging UH-1N Huey Helicopter
September 25, 2018
September 25, 2018
AFA Applauds Award to Replace Aging UH-1N Huey Helicopter
After years of delays and protests, the Air Force finally awarded a $2.38 billion contract to replace its aging UH-1N Huey helicopter. The competitive firm-price contract saves taxpayers an estimated $1.7 billion and will finally meet the long-standing requirements of US Strategic Command and Air Force Global Strike Command.
“Replacing the old UH-1N helicopter has long been one of our association’s top issues” said AFA’s President Gen Larry Spencer, USAF (Ret.). “The recapitalization of this helicopter will help tremendously in improving the capability and readiness of the US Air Force.”
The UH-1N, which first saw flight in 1969, is being replaced because it is no longer effective in providing security to the nation’s ICBM forces and nuclear deterrence operations and is ineffective in fulfilling transport missions in the US National Capital Region.
First deliveries of the new helicopter are expected in fiscal year 2021.