Aerospace 101 Air Power and Cross-Domain Integration U.S. Air Force Helicopters 101 PublishedDecember 5, 2017 Last UpdatedJune 14, 2022 Helicopters allow for support to be delivered in places where conventional aircraft cannot, due to their smaller profile and ability to conduct vertical take-offs and landings. Whether it is the medical evacuation of wounded soldiers in tight clearings or providing consistent cover from above, helicopters enable the Air Force to fill capability gaps and provide continuous support. HH-60 Pave Hawk Justin Weaver/U.S. Air Force History: After initial acquisition, the Air Force modified its UH-60s for search and rescue operations. The HH-60 has been a workhorse for personnel recovery and disaster relief, including operations in Japan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Africa, and Panama. Characteristics: The Pave Hawk is a highly versatile helicopter modified to be able to refuel in-flight and to have upgraded avionics and navigation, and rescue equipment. It is equipped with a cargo hook can raise or lower up to 8,000 pounds. Contractor: United Technologies/Sikorsky Aircraft Company Thrust: 1,560-1,940 shaft horsepower, each engine Payload: depends upon mission Speed: 184 mph (159 knots) Range: 504 nautical miles Crew: Two pilots, one flight engineer and one gunner Initial Operating Capability: 1982 Unit Cost: $40.1 million (fiscal year 2011 dollars) Average Age: 25.4 Current Inventory: 101 UH-1 Iroquois (Huey) Joe Yanik/U.S. Air Force History: The UH-1 “Huey” is a storied helicopter across all services since its introduction in 1970 as a search and rescue helicopter. Notably, UH-1s were extensively used in Vietnam. Characteristics: As a light-utility helicopter, the UH-1N is capable of operating in a variety of roles and terrain. The N variant possesses two engines, though it can fly on only one, making it exceptionally reliable for search and rescue, command and control, medical evacuation, and the transportation of personnel and cargo. Contractor: Bell Helicopter Company Thrust: 1,970 lbf shaft horsepower for each of the two T400-CP-400 turboshaft engines Payload: 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) Speed: 149 mph (130 knots) Range: 300-plus miles Crew: Pilot with co-pilot and flight engineer, depending upon mission Initial Operating Capability: 1970 Unit Cost: 26.2 million Average Age: 41.2 Current Inventory: 91 Return to the Aerospace 101 Archive