16 December 2019:The Czech Republic Minister of Defence, Lubomir Metnar and the US Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper has signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance finalising the foreign military sale by Bell Textron, of H-1 helicopters to the Czech Air Force.
"We are privileged to support the Czech people and applaud the Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces of the Czech Republic for selecting AH-1Z and UH-1Y helicopters." said Vince Tobin, Executive Vice President of Bell's Military Business.
The H-1 mixed fleet has 85-percent commonality between parts which reduces the logistics, maintenance, and training costs of the AH-1Z and UY-1Y helicopters while providing a lethal combination of integrated weapons systems to counter ground, air, and maritime targets effectively. The AH-1Z is the only helicopter in production fitted with the AIM-9 Sidewinder that provides the most advanced air-to-air combat capabilities.
"This mix allows the Czech Republic to accomplish a diverse mission set, from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to close air support and air-to-air warfare," said Joel Best, Director of Military Sales and Strategy, Europe. "The advanced capabilities of the H-1 program help ensure the safety and security of Czech sons and daughters for years to come."