The UH-72 is the U.S. Army’s third-largest rotor-wing fleet and supports missions across 49 states and territories. Those roles include homeland defense, search and rescue, disaster relief, surveillance and medical evacuation.
“Army and National Guard pilots need modern technology and a proven aircraft they can count on to meet evolving mission demands,” said Alex Veneziano, CEO of Airbus U.S. Space & Defense. “Continued modernization ensures the Army’s Lakota fleet remains a critical part of Army aviation for years to come.”
The UH-72B is the latest version of the aircraft that has served as the Army’s Light Utility Helicopter since the first Lakota contract award and delivery in 2006. It is based on Airbus’ commercial H145 platform and uses a five-bladed main rotor, Fenestron shrouded tail rotor, twin Safran Arriel 2E engines and the Helionix avionics suite.
Airbus said the configuration is designed to improve flight performance and safety while retaining the commercial off-the-shelf approach used throughout the Lakota program. The new order adds to a fleet that has accumulated more than 1.7 million flight hours.
The company has delivered more than 480 Lakota helicopters on time since the program began. The aircraft now support Army and National Guard units across most of the United States and its territories.
The 10 helicopters covered by the new contract will be assembled at Airbus’ production facility in Columbus, Mississippi. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027 and continue through 2029, while the two-aircraft option could expand the order if exercised.
