GE Aerospace will create digital systems for the FLRAA's potentially $70bn project to replace the US Army's 3,200 Apache and Black Hawk helicopters

Bell has identified the developer of digital systems for the next generation of convertoplanes. It became the company GE Aerospace.

Here's What We Know

The financial terms of the deal between the two firms have not yet been specified. What is known is that GE Aerospace will develop common digital systems with open infrastructure for the V-280 Valor convertoplanes, which will be a replacement for the Black Hawk and Apache helicopters.

The US Army was choosing between the V-280 Valor and the Defiant X. The latest development is a joint project between Boeing and Sikorsky. The project, called the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) will create a replacement for 2,000 Black Hawk and 1,200 Apache helicopters. The potential cost of the entire programme is $70bn.

GE Aerospace will improve the renewal and maintenance of the US Army's aircraft and can ensure that soldiers have an edge on the battlefield. Amy Gowder, president and CEO of the Defence and Systems Division at GE Aerospace, said.

The US Army has committed $232 million to Bell for the first phase, while the funding ceiling including fulfilment of all additional options is $1.3 billion. Bell is expected to provide the US Army with the first prototypes of the convertible by 2025.

Source: Defence News