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Boeing and Leonardo Partner for U.S. Army's Flight Training

In an innovative collaboration, Boeing and Leonardo aim to redefine aviator training for the U.S. Army through their bid for the Flight School Next contractor-owned, contractor-operated (COCO) service contract. This partnership merges Boeing's extensive operational training experience with Leonardo's proven AW119T helicopter technology to create a robust, efficient training solution for the next generation of military aviators.

Collaborative Strengths

Boeing, recognized as a leading U.S. aerospace company, brings years of expertise in training support, particularly with its global operations for the AH-64 Apache. This includes a comprehensive suite of training services that incorporate live, virtual, and constructive simulations alongside advanced cockpit procedure trainers. Their mission is to enhance the readiness of aircrew through effective, hands-on training methodologies.

Leonardo complements Boeing’s offerings with its robust background in manufacturing and maintaining the AW119T helicopter, which has been operational for over 100,000 flight hours. This experience is essential, especially given that 130 AW119Ts are currently supporting U.S. military training operations at Fort Rucker, Alabama.

Key Features of the Training Program

Under this partnership, the training program is designed to elevate overall training hours and skills. Key aspects of their initiative include:

• - Proven Aircraft: The AW119T is recognized for its reliability and safety features. The design incorporates crashworthy seating and efficient fuel systems, crucial for executing critical training scenarios, including autorotations and emergency response drills.

• - Full-Service Training System: The offering encompasses a fully integrated service package, including equipment, maintenance, instructors, and simulated training environments. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of a cadet's training are covered seamlessly.

• - Advanced Instruction Methods: The proposed program is both proficiency-based and phase-driven. It integrates traditional aircraft instruction with advanced simulators, enabling personalized learning experiences and progressive skills development.

• - Operational Efficiency: The innovative training model emphasizes automated logistics and adaptive training calendars. This efficiency will mitigate the effects of weather and daylight variations, significantly enhancing aircraft utilization during training hours.

• - Sustainable Support Infrastructure: The partnership benefits from an established support structure, featuring a dedicated AW119T sustainment facility. This ensures that all operational demands can be met swiftly and effectively.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

Both Boeing and Leonardo are dedicated to leveraging their industry-leading expertise to provide the U.S. Army with a state-of-the-art training solution. As noted by John Chicoli of Boeing, this cooperation is poised to deliver tangible benefits over the life of the program, ultimately maximizing aviator proficiency and operational efficiencies.

Leonardo’s CEO, Clyde Woltman, echoes this sentiment, highlighting that the existing operational capabilities of the AW119T will provide immediate benefits while setting the foundation for long-term advancements in military training methodologies.

The combined efforts of Boeing and Leonardo not only signify a strategic enhancement for the U.S. Army’s training capabilities but also mark a significant step towards transforming how future aviators are prepared for their critical roles in national defense.

This partnership showcases the potential of teamwork in the aerospace sector, aligning cutting-edge technology with the evolving needs of military training programs to ensure that aviators are rigorously prepared for the challenges ahead.