- Fiscal year 2025 is significant for the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft program, known as the Bell V-280 Valor. The program has moved into the engineering and manufacturing phase, with six prototypes being developed and the first flight expected in 2026.
- The Bell V-280 Valor is designed for various missions, including air assault and medical evacuation, enhancing the Army’s H-60 Black Hawk fleet with its long-range and high-speed capabilities.
- The Bell 505 is a cost-effective training solution, with over 500 in use worldwide and rapidly being adopted by foreign militaries.
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Fiscal year 2025 is shaping up to be a significant one for the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft program, known as the Bell V-280 Valor. After successfully hitting all the marks for Milestone B, the program has moved into the engineering and manufacturing phase. This phase includes the development of six prototypes, with the first flight expected in 2026 and initial fielding by 2030 and that’s why it’s our weapon of the week.
What is the Bell V-280 Valor used for?
The Bell V-280 Valor is designed for a variety of missions, including air assault and medical evacuation. This tilt-rotor aircraft was chosen to enhance the Army’s H-60 Black Hawk fleet with its long-range and high-speed capabilities.
“The V-280’s advanced design aims to provide the Army with greater operational flexibility and efficiency in various combat and support roles,” Bell Textron spokesperson said.
How are pilots trained on the V-280 Valor?
Before pilots can take control of the V-280, they will likely need to transition through a training helicopter. Currently, the Army trains helicopter pilot candidates in the UH-72 Lakota. However, there is a growing push to make the Bell 505 the trainer of choice.
The Bell 505 is a proven platform, with more than 500 in use around the world. It offers training capabilities that the UH-72 cannot match.
Matt Dorram, a senior manager at Bell Textron, highlighted the benefits of the Bell 505 at the AUSA 2024 conference.
“One of the most significant advantages is the ability to practice autorotation landings,” Dorram said. “This maneuver involves turning off the engine or reducing it to idle, which uncouples the rotor from the engine. The airflow through the rotor system during descent keeps the rotor turning, allowing pilots to execute a safe landing with the remaining rotor RPM. This practice builds confidence and prepares pilots for emergency situations where they might lose all power.”
What makes the Bell 505 a better training helicopter?
Another key feature of the Bell 505 is its glass cockpit. This term refers to a control panel that uses digital displays instead of traditional analog instruments.
“The glass cockpit provides pilots with clear, easy-to-read flight information on large screens, improving safety and efficiency,” Dorram said. “The Bell 505’s Garmin 1000 cockpit is modern and well-suited for a training fleet, preparing pilots for advanced aircraft with similar technology.”
The Bell 505 is also a proven platform that is essentially ready to go out of the box. Bell Textron produces over 100 of these aircraft annually. The company said foreign militaries are rapidly adopting the aircraft for their training fleets.
“Countries around the world are recognizing the training value of the Bell 505, with fleets of six, eight, 10, 12 or even 40 aircraft being established,” Dorram said.
Why would the Army switch training helicopters?
While the Army has not officially confirmed that it will use the Bell 505 as a trainer for the V-280 Valor, there are many compelling reasons why it might. One appealing feature is the additional seating.
“The back seat of the Bell 505 offers stadium seating, allowing non-flying student pilots to observe and learn from the instructor and student pilot in the front seats,” Dorram explained. “This setup provides valuable visibility and learning opportunities, making it an excellent training helicopter.”
Of course, the cost is a significant consideration, especially with the new administration’s focus on cost-cutting. The publicly available price for a Bell 505 is around $2 million. While this may seem high, it is relatively affordable compared to other training helicopters.
In 2020, the Army paid over $122 million for 15 UH-72s, averaging more than $8 million per aircraft.
“The Bell 505 offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on training quality,” Dorram concluded.
The Bell V-280 Valor and the Bell 505 trainer represent significant advancements in the U.S. Army’s aviation capabilities.
The V-280’s long-range, high-speed capabilities will enhance the Army’s operational flexibility, while the Bell 505 offers a modern, effective training platform.
As the Army continues to develop and field these aircraft, they will play a crucial role in maintaining the nation’s military readiness and effectiveness.
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