#USA #Texas #Davenport Aviation #Virtus #AS350

Successful Completion of Virtus 'First Shot'

Davenport Aviation has made headlines with the successful conclusion of the 'First Shot' tests for its highly anticipated weapon system, Virtus. This achievement took place last month in West Texas, marking a pivotal moment in the developmental journey of the modular weapon system intended for the AS350/H125 aircraft.

The 'First Shot' campaign involved multiple successful rocket launches, effectively validating Virtus as a combat-ready configuration for both AS350 and H125 platforms. This accomplishment not only confirms the structural integrity and system integration of Virtus but showcases its operational viability in real-world scenarios. Davenport Aviation has now demonstrated that the Virtus configuration is fully functional and prepared for mission-critical operations in military and security sectors.

Rob McMillin, Vice President of Aircraft and Aircraft Systems at Davenport Aviation, stated, _“This was a crucial milestone for Davenport Aviation and the Virtus team. The successful completion of our First Shot test campaign validates our system engineering and demonstrates that the H125 can operate safely and effectively in an armed configuration.”_

Virtus stands out as the world’s first modular weapons system designed specifically for the AS350/H125 family of helicopters, allowing rapid reconfiguration for diverse mission profiles. Installations and removals can be achieved in less than an hour, enabling a seamless transition between different operational functions.

Designed for multi-mission adaptability, Virtus accommodates a wide range of configurable armaments, including miniguns, unguided rockets, precision-guided munitions, and air-dropped effects. Furthermore, the system integrates EO/IR sensors, door gun options, cargo winches, lights, ballistic protection, and emergency floats, effectively enhancing mission capabilities across armed reconnaissance, ISR, special operations, search and rescue, firefighting, humanitarian assistance, and CASEVAC/MEDEVAC missions.

Chris Arnold, Government Sales Director of Davenport Aviation, remarked, _“The success of First Shot confirms our goal of creating a truly multi-mission aircraft that offers operators flexibility without the cost and complexity associated with traditional attack platforms. Virtus empowers global operators to meet evolving mission demands with a single, cost-effective helicopter.”_

Davenport Aviation acknowledges the invaluable contributions of partners such as XP Services, Moog Inc., and Ember Solutions, which played a critical role in achieving this milestone.

Building on the proven AS350/H125 platform, Virtus enables operators to modernize existing fleets while simultaneously reducing acquisition costs, training burdens, and overall lifecycle expenses.

For further details, visit Davenport Aviation's website.