HUEY

The Helicopter that became an Australian Legend

Collector’s Edition, Limited Release

By Mark Lax

Published by Big Sky Publishing

RRP $69.99 in hardback

ISBN 9781923514072

AIRCDRE Mark Lax transferred from the RAAF to the Reserves in 2007, finally retiring in 2024. In that time, he completed a PhD in Military History and has authored numerous books, most notably the history of the iconic F-111, From Controversy to Cutting Edge, which was recently re-published by Big Sky in an updated edition.

Now he has turned his attention to another icon of military aviation — the Bell UH-1 Iroquois.

Flown by Australians of all three Services between 1962 and 2007, the Iroquois served the nation in peace and war — from Malaysia and Vietnam to the Middle East and the South Pacific. It saved lives in search-and-rescue missions.

It was the Iroquois’ job to deliver water, food, fodder, and fuel to stranded outposts. It became the Iroquois’ job to help keep the peace. It was also the ubiquitous training helicopter for pilots, loadmasters and crewmen destined for more advanced types like the Chinook, Seahawk and Black Hawk.

Sixty-six were purchased over an 11-year period.

Today, those that remain are displayed in museums, RSL clubs, or stand guard at bases around the country.

This is a beautifully presented book that traces the history of this iconic helicopter, a history which runs parallel with the development of army aviation and the vital role of helicopters in war and in peacetime.