European aircraft manufacturer Airbus is best known for their highly successful A320, A330, A350 and A380 passenger aircraft. However, Airbus has a less famous yet important arm to their business, Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. Under this division, Airbus produces helicopter and defense platforms for the United States military, state and local law enforcement. Airbus has reached a significant milestone in the program by winning a contract for modernization of United States Army’s Airbus helicopters. The United States Army awarded Airbus the contract with a valuation of over $27 million USD. As part of the contract, Airbus will upgrade Army National Guard Airbus UH-72A Lakota helicopters.
Enhancing A Versatile Helicopter Platform
Back in 2006 Airbus began deliveries of the UH-72A Lakota. Airbus will upgrade the helicopters National Guard Security & Support Battalion Mission Equipment Package (MEP). As part of the upgrade capabilities such as an advanced moving map, enhanced digital technology and other system improvements will be implemented. Over 50 aircraft are expected to be retrofitted and will be deployed at various units across the United States. The MEP upgraded UH-72A Lakotas will be retrofitted in Columbus, Mississippi. Following the upgrades the helicopter will fly domestic missions, counter drug and border security operations. Web article and images do not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
