The acquisition of additional UH72B helicopters or the refurbishment of UH72A aircraft is crucial for the Army National Guard (ARNG) to uphold its essential roles in Homeland Defense (HD/Border Security), counter drug operations, response to domestic emergencies, and management of natural disasters. This initiative enhances operational capabilities by providing increased power and reducing risks associated with critical high/hot operations.

The UH-72 S&S Battalion mission suite, featuring communication links and an EO/IR sensor, forms a comprehensive ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) package necessary for the execution of vital deployable missions. The augmented power provided by the UH-72B and MEP (Mission Equipment Package) upgrades also empower the ARNG to conduct training for the Air Cavalry Mission until a suitable replacement becomes available. Given that disaster-response requests often require swift action, having a diverse fleet of aircraft stationed strategically across the country enables the ARNG to respond promptly to various missions with well-trained and prepared crews.

To address the challenges posed by the aging UH72A fleet, a comprehensive lifecycle sustainment and modernization analysis is recommended. This analysis will identify gaps in the lifecycle and pinpoint replacement parts to ensure continued operational efficiency. Ultimately, the UH-72B MEP-equipped helicopters play a vital role in both the dual-use wartime/deployment missions and domestic operations that the ARNG has been successfully undertaking for decades.

Continued modernization of the UH72 Mission Equipment Package through integrated improvements to sub-systems and components to achieve improved mission lethality. Continue upgrades to mission equipment packages on the UH-72A and B to improve the assessment of targeting and weapons capabilities in a semi-permissive environment. Gain and maintain improved lethality by replacing the searchlight, improve communication including beyond line of sight (BLOS), Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), Satellite Communication (SATCOM), Mode 5 IFF compliance, and Modular Open System Approach (MOSA) Digital Backbone interoperability capability. Incorporate Aircraft Survivability Equipment (ASE) and other internal modifications to permit UH-72 A/B operating in a permissible environment.