Astronics Corporation, a prominent provider of advanced aerospace technologies, has entered into a contract with Bell to contribute to the development of the V-280 Valor for the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program. As a member of Team Valor, Astronics has been actively engaged with Bell for several years, initially supplying the electrical power and distribution system for the V-280 demonstrator aircraft. The new agreement signifies an extended collaboration to enhance the system for qualification and certification, following the Army’s selection of the V-280 as the FLRAA program’s winning solution, intended to replace the UH-60 Blackhawk.
Under the anticipated full development program contract, the collaboration will encompass finalizing the power system design and development, system integration services, and early deliveries of flight hardware. Astronics’ CorePower family of solutions, including solid-state electronic circuit breakers and power conversion technology, will enhance the V-280 aircraft. This technology will offer clean, intelligent, and efficient power solutions that not only enhance aircraft performance but also align with the U.S. Army’s Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) initiatives, contributing to a reduction in overall system weight.