The UH-1C was specifically developed as a gunship version until the "interim" attack helicopter, the Bell AH-1G Huey Cobra was available and to correct the deficiencies of the UH-1B when it was used in the armed role. The UH-1C was widely referred to as the "Huey Hog" in US Army service.
Bell UH-1C Huey Designed to meet a US Army requirement for a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and general utility helicopter, the UH-1 Huey was first flown on October 20, 1956. Nicknamed "Huey" because of its original "HU-1" designation, this aircraft became famous during the Vietnam War, where 7,000 of them served in a variety of roles, from MEDEVAC and search and rescue to troop transport, air assault and ground attack. As a troop transporter, the Huey revolutionized warfare, giving the Army the ability to strategically position troops in various locations that were otherwise difficult to reach in the heavy jungle environment.