Bell Helicopter's new Repair and Overhaul Center (ROC), located in Roanoke, Texas, recently completed the first components sent to the facility for overhaul.

The first components completed included a transmission and a combining gearbox for Bell's AH-1W helicopter. The 82,000 square foot facility will repair and overhaul transmissions, rotating controls, rotor hubs, gearboxes, and rotor blades, as well as coordinate 2nd tier supplier repairs for all of Bell's U.S. military platforms.

"This facility and the 75 professionals who work here, are providing industry leading customer support while also establishing the infrastructure for Bell Helicopter to deliver performance based logistics," said ROC Director David Martin. "The team has streamlined the entire operation, and is continuing to look for new ways to reduce cost and cycle time."

Several of Bell Helicopter's military customers have visited the facility since construction began in September of last year, and have expressed interest in Bell's expanding capability to support the warfighter.

"Our customers are very impressed with the facility and they are happy to see Bell making this kind of investment ensuring the highest level of customer service and support," Martin said.

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.com, www.textron.com