The Army farewelled the venerable UH-1H Iroquois ‘Huey’ helicopter today, with a lunchtime farewell flypast by three aircraft over Brisbane. The ‘Huey’ has become synonymous with the Vietnam War and its distinctive “thwock thwock” sound evokes instant memories amongst the Vietnam Veteran community. However it has served Australia faithfully both domestically and around the world in warlike conditions, peace keeping, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance since its introduction in 1962.

The Iroquois was initially operated by the Royal Australian Air Force before the capability was handed over to the Army in 1989. The Royal Australian Navy also operated Iroquois from 1967, with the type being withdrawn from Navy service in 1989.

Brigadier Nick Bartels, Commander of Army’s 16th Brigade (Aviation) said it was a day of mixed emotions. “The ‘Huey’ has been a part of the Australian Defence Force for 45 years and, in that time, it has been a part of life for so many people, both in the services and the general public,” he said. Its wartime role in Vietnam has been well documented and to a lesser extent its involvement in the Malayan Confrontation and duties with the United Nations in Egypt and the Sinai.

Brigadier Bartels said, however, that the activities of the Iroquois in disaster relief and humanitarian aid proved the versatility of the aircraft.

“From it being involved in Search and Rescues at sea and on land, fighting bush fires and carrying relief supplies in floods and drought, to aiding the villagers in isolated Aceh communities after the tsunami disaster in Sumatra, the Huey will live on in the hearts of those who have been helped long after today.

“The Iroquois has enabled the Australian Defence Force to serve the community in many different ways and although it is being retired today, the capability will not be lost.

“Towards the end of the year we will take delivery of the first of our multi-role helicopter, the MRH-90, which will take over all the duties of the Iroquois as well as providing important new capability,” he said.

The MRH-90 is larger, more powerful and more versatile than the Iroquois, and will be entered into service with both Army and Navy.