Submitted Photo UH-1N Iroquois helicopters prepare for take off for a formation flight during a Tactical Response Force exercise at Minot Air Force Base, Thursday, Aug. 21. The UH-1N has been stationed at Minot AFB since March 20, 1980, and is scheduled to remain until 2029, with the MH-139A expected to arrive in 2027. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alyssa Bankston.

Submitted Photo A UH-1N Iroquois helicopter takes off on the flightline for a formation flight at Minot Air Force Base Thursday, Aug. 21. The Air Force began using the UH-1N Iroquois in 1970 for search and rescue missions and later expanded its role to include missile security. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Wesley Davies.

Submitted Photo A formation of UH-1N Iroquois helicopters fly over Minot Air Force Base, Thursday, Aug. 21. The primary missions of the UH-1N Iroquois include airlifting emergency security forces, providing security and surveillance of off-base nuclear weapons convoys and conducting medical evacuation. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alyssa Bankston.