The Oklahoma Army National Guard announced today they will receive four UH-72A “Lakota” helicopters this year. The helicopters will replace four OH-58C “Kiowa” helicopters that have been in service for more than 30 years. The first two Lakotas are scheduled to arrive in Oklahoma in April with the final two following in May.

The UH-72A is a twin engine platform with a single four-bladed main rotor and was designed as a light utility helicopter for the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. It is a militarized version of the Eurocopter EC145 built by EADS North America.

The UH-72A will significantly increase the Oklahoma National Guard’s ability to conduct emergency support missions. Its primary missions will include homeland security, disaster-response, fire fighting command and control and medical evacuations.

Oklahoma Army National Guard aircrews and aircraft maintainers are currently undergoing training at several locations throughout the Southwest preparing for the UH-72’s arrival.