The external iliac artery is a major blood vessel that branches off from the common iliac artery. It runs along the pelvic region and supplies blood to the lower limbs. This artery is crucial for delivering oxygenated blood to the legs and feet, ensuring proper circulation and function. As it travels downward, the external iliac artery eventually becomes the femoral artery after passing under the inguinal ligament. This transition marks its entry into the thigh, where it continues to branch into smaller arteries that supply various muscles and tissues in the leg.