ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Kirtland Air Force Base is first in line to get the next generation of combat rescue helicopters.
The Albuquerque Journal reports the new combat rescue helicopter was developed under a $1.28 billion contract. It will have expanded range and efficiency, a bigger cabin and improved performance at high altitudes.
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich said Tuesday at the base that the old fleet of search-and-rescue helicopters will be replaced by 2028.
Senators including the New Mexico Democrat pushed against terminating the replacement program over two years ago.
Heinrich called the base's 58th Special Operations Wing the leading training facility for combat search and rescue crews and Air Force special operations.
Col. Dagvin Anderson is the special operations wing commander, and says the retiring aircraft have been used since the 1980s.