UH-72A makes 1st flight with Security and Support Battalion Mission Equipment Package

• Major milestone underscores EADS North America's ability to develop, integrate and deliver complex mission systems for U.S. warfighters

(Arlington, Virginia, August 12, 2010) -- The first flight of the UH-72A Lakota Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) equipped with the Security and Support Battalion (S&S Battalion) Mission Equipment Package (MEP) occurred in June at the company's American Eurocopter facility in Columbus, Miss.

The S&S Battalion MEP will greatly expand the Lakota's use for reconnaissance, command and control and air movement operations in support of U.S. homeland defense and security missions with the U.S. Army National Guard.

The maiden flight with this mission package on a UH-72A version represents another milestone in the Lakota's highly successful development for the U.S. Army and also demonstrates EADS North America's ability to evolve complex systems to meet warfighters' mission needs.

"This is a very significant milestone in the maturation of the UH-72A Lakota for the U.S. Army and National Guard user," said EADS North America COO David R. Oliver. "The fleet of Lakota aircraft is approaching 40,000 flight hours and as the Army continues to fly Lakotas they're realizing the versatility and reliability of the aircraft. The S&S Battalion first flight illustrates the continued expansion and validation of the Lakota's capabilities."

Source : European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company EADS N.V. (Paris: EAD.PA)