In the late sixties this small helicopter became operative with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war. Initially this aircraft was thought to be inadequate for difficult operating conditions. The OH-6 was renamed "Loach" and became a much appreciated reconnaissance helicopter due to its mobility and reliability. About one hundred units were ordered by the U.S. Army Later it was also produced for civilian use and at the same time was exported to many armed forces, where it is still in use in its most recent versions.