Collins Aerospace Teams Up with Bell for Next-Gen Assault Aircraft for the U.S. Army
In a significant move towards enhancing the U.S. Army's operational capabilities, Collins Aerospace, part of RTX (NYSE: RTX), has secured multiple contracts from Bell Textron Inc. to contribute to the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program. This collaboration aims to deliver five essential systems that are integral to the MV-75 assault aircraft, set to redefine military aviation requirements.
The FLRAA project represents the Army’s first new rotorcraft in a generation, promising to double the speed and increase the range compared to the current fleet of helicopters. To achieve this ambitious goal, Collins Aerospace is leveraging its expertise in military-grade commercial technology, developed to meet the exacting demands of modern combat scenarios.
Troy Brunk, the president of Collins Aerospace, expressed a commitment to facilitating both the delivery and long-term sustainability of this advanced aircraft, stating, "The Army's new generation of rotorcraft needs to fly farther and faster, and we're dedicated to helping Bell accelerate the delivery of that advanced performance." This collaboration ensures that the U.S. Army can depend on modern technology for the next 50 years, seamlessly integrating innovative systems into the aircraft.
The five systems Collins Aerospace will develop include:
1. Main Power Generation: This system will provide the necessary power for the aircraft's various functions and capabilities.
2. Interconnect Drive System: Critical for ensuring communication and functionality between various aircraft components.
3. SmartProbe® Air Data System: An advanced sensor suite that ensures accurate environmental data for the aircraft during flight.
4. Cockpit Seating: Designed for ergonomics and safety, ensuring pilot comfort and operational efficiency.
5. Ice Protection System: Essential for maintaining flight safety and performance in adverse weather conditions, particularly in icy environments.
Ryan Ehinger, Bell's senior vice president and program director, remarked on the partnership, saying, "We are happy to work with Collins Aerospace and add their expertise to Team FLRAA. Together, we are committed to delivering a high-performing, reliable aircraft that will provide the U.S. Army with the critical capability it needs for the future fight."
The development of the MV-75 FLRAA is grounded in modern digital engineering principles combined with a modular open systems approach, allowing for enhanced flexibility and efficiency throughout its lifecycle. These characteristics are vital as military needs evolve in response to changing operational environments.
The manufacturing and assembly of these systems will take place across multiple states, including Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia, illustrating the widespread impact and engagement of the aerospace and defense sectors nationwide.
About Collins Aerospace:
Collins Aerospace is renowned for its integrated and intelligent solutions in the aerospace and defense arena. With a dedicated workforce of around 80,000 employees, the company emphasizes delivering innovative technologies aimed at enhancing connected aviation, ensuring passenger safety, and aiding various missions, including space exploration.
About RTX:
RTX employs over 180,000 individuals globally and strives to push boundaries in technology and science, redefining connections and protections in the aerospace sector through advanced integrated defense systems and next-generation solutions. The company generated sales exceeding $88 billion in 2025 and is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
This partnership showcases an essential step towards modernizing military aviation capabilities, affirming the ongoing commitment to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the U.S. Army's rotorcraft fleet.