UH-72 Modernization

The Issue

Army National Guard Security and Support Battalions (S&S) conduct critical Defense Support to Civilian Authorities (DSCA) using the UH-72 Lakota. Missions include reconnaissance, air movement, casualty evacuation, search and rescue, and command and control in support of local, state, and federal agencies. While the current UH-72A performs well, an opportunity exists to leverage ongoing production of the upgraded UH-72B to modernize the Army National Guard fleet and cascade low-time displaced UH-72A aircraft to the Army’s enduring UH-72A TDA fleets. Establishing a modernization and sustainment program mitigates the effects of a maturing fleet while introducing technology and capability improvements to Army National Guard units.

Recommendation

Designating 12 additional UH-72B aircraft for the Army National guard within defense appropriations legislation.

Point of Contact

Marcy Weldin
Deputy Legislative Director, Army Programs