Bell UH-1 Iroquois

The Bell UH‑1 Iroquois, popularly known as the “Huey,” entered service in 1959 as the first turbine‑powered helicopter designed for the United States Army. Developed by Bell Textron, the UH‑1 evolved from a civilian model, the Bell 204, and quickly became a versatile workhorse during the Vietnam War, where its reliability, simplicity and ability to transport troops, medics, weapons and supplies transformed modern combat logistics. Powered by a single Lycoming T53 turboshaft engine, the aircraft delivers up to 1,400 shaft horsepower, enabling a maximum speed of roughly 125 knots and a range exceeding 300 nautical miles. Its spacious cabin accommodates up to nine passengers or a comparable cargo load, while a rear-mounted slab door facilitates rapid loading and deployment. Over 16,000 Hueys were built, spawning numerous variants such as the armed UH‑1C gunship and the civil‑market Bell 212 twin‑engine version. The Iroquois set a benchmark for rotary‑wing design, demonstrating that a single‑engine helicopter could perform a broad spectrum of missions, from close‑air support to humanitarian relief. Its iconic silhouette and proven performance cement the Bell UH‑1’s legacy as a pivotal catalyst in the evolution of modern aviation and a symbol of mid‑20th‑century technological progress.

Bell Textron

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