The
prototype Bell Model 204 first flew in 1956 and was the first
turbine powered aircraft ordered by the U.S. Army. Initially
designated the H-40 following the U.S.A.F. designating
system, this aircraft was re-designated the HU-1 when it
entered service in 1959. Although officially named "Iroquois",
it was better known as the "Huey" based on this
designation.
In 1962, the U.S. Military changed it's
designating system and again changed the designation of the Huey to UH-1.
At the same time a lengthened version, the Model 205 was
introduced. This went into service as the UH-1D.
The Huey saw action in Vietnam serving as
everything from medevac to air assault roles. It served in all
four branches of the U.S. uniformed services and in the armed forces
of at least 48 other nations. Both Models 204 and 205 are
license built by Fuji in Japan and Agusta in Italy.
