The Longest Serving U.S. Army Aircraft Still Flying Today

"Old doesn't mean obsolete. The Army's longest-serving aircraft still fly because they do jobs newer platforms sometimes can't do as cheaply or reliably. Also, if it's not broke, don't fix it. The battle-tested and proven aircraft of the Army have reliably performed for decades-some for over half-a-century. These aircraft are mainstays of the U.S. Armed Forces and perform much needed roles like transport, close-air support, and medevac. Here, 24/7 Wall St. is taking a closer look at the U.S. Army's aircraft."

"Introduced in 2007, the UH-72 Lakota is a modern light utility helicopter that serves primarily in non-combat missions. These helicopters are used extensively by the Army with over 470 currently in active service. The Lakota typically serves in transport, medical evacuation, and reconnaissance roles. These helicopters were originally designed by Eurocopter, now Airbus Helicopters, and they have a top speed of 167 mph."

"Understanding the aircraft used by the U.S. Army provides insight into joint military capabilities and defense strategies. Also knowing what the U.S. has in its arsenal further explains its military capabilities. This further gives context to the tactical flexibility and logistical reach the Army brings in its operations. Lastly, the composition and technological level of the aircraft fleet highlight the Army's ability of maintaining dominance and its rapid response capabilities, both of these are key factors in its strategic defense planning."

Many long-serving U.S. Army aircraft remain active because older platforms can fulfill specific roles more cheaply and reliably than newer designs. Battle-tested aircraft have provided dependable service for decades, with some operating for more than fifty years. Fleet roles include transport, close-air support, and medical evacuation, which support tactical flexibility and logistical reach. Identification of the oldest aircraft uses chronological ranking and includes type, number in active service, armament, and top speed. For example, the UH-72 Lakota, introduced in 2007, serves transport, medevac, and reconnaissance missions with over 470 in service and a 167 mph top speed.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.