Deliveries of UH-72As to the U.S. Army began three months ahead of schedule. Two Light Utility Helicopters will be delivered before year-end, and 40 more currently are in production.

The UH-72A carries an external hoist as part of its basic mission equipment. At the December 11 delivery ceremony, the Army named its newest helicopter the Lakota.

A rear view of the UH-72A details the high-set main and tail rotors, which allow safe and fast loading through the rear clamshell doors and the sliding side doors.

The UH-72A’s large wraparound front windscreens provide unmatched visibility for the helicopter’s crew.

Signing the DD250 documentation for the no. 1 UH-72A’s formal delivery are (from left to right) Ralph D. Crosby, Jr., Chairman & CEO of EADS North America: Robert Schmitt, Director, Aeronautical Systems Division, Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA); General Richard A. Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army; and Lt. Gen. Clyde A. Vaughn, Director, Army National Guard. Behind them is the second UH-72A, which is scheduled to be delivered before year-end.