Davenport Aviation Achieves Milestone with Virtus First Shot Testing of AS350/H125 Platform

Davenport Aviation's Virtus Project Makes Headway

Davenport Aviation has made significant strides with its Virtus project, having recently completed the first testing phase of the Virtus 'First Shot' system. The tests took place last month in West Texas and represent a crucial step in advancing the modular combat system designed for the AS350/H125 aircraft. This success underscores the platform's potential in modern military operations.

The testing campaign involved several successful missile launches, confirming the Virtus system as a reliable and effective combat configuration for both the AS350 and H125 platforms. These results showcased the structural integrity, system integration, and operational viability of Virtus when deployed on the AS350/H125 airframe.

Rob McMillin, Vice President for Aircraft and Aerospace Systems at Davenport Aviation, emphasized the importance of this milestone: "Completing our First Shot testing campaign affirms the technical maturity of the system and demonstrates that the H125 can operate safely and effectively in a combat configuration."

The Virtus system distinguishes itself as the world’s first modular weapon system developed specifically for the AS350/H125 series. This innovative system allows operators to quickly reconfigure a single aircraft for various mission types in under an hour, facilitating seamless transitions between tasks.

The Virtus system is designed to adapt to multiple missions and supports a versatile armament range. This includes everything from miniguns mounted on the airframe to unguided rockets, precision-guided munitions, and air-launched weapons. Furthermore, it includes EO/IR sensors, door gunner capabilities, winches, searchlights, cargo transport options, ballistic protection, and emergency floats. The versatility of Virtus enables it to support armed reconnaissance, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), special operations, search and rescue, firefighting, humanitarian aid, and CASEVAC/MEDEVAC missions.

Chris Arnold, Director of Sales for Government Entities at Davenport Aviation, shared his enthusiasm regarding the First Shot's success: "We aimed to create a true multi-role aircraft that provides operators with flexibility without the costs and complexities of traditional attack platforms. Virtus empowers global operators to meet changing mission requirements with a single cost-effective helicopter."

Davenport Aviation extends its gratitude to partners like XP Services, Moog Inc., and Ember Solutions for their contributions to achieving this milestone. The Virtus system, built upon the proven AS350/H125 platform, allows operators to modernize their existing fleets while also reducing acquisition costs, training burdens, and lifecycle expenses.

For further details about the Virtus system and its capabilities, please visit www.davenportaviation.com/virtus.