Astronics, Meggitt To Provide Key Components

Two key suppliers have been named to the team producing Bell Helicopter's new V-280 Valor. Astronics Advanced Electric Systems will design and manufacture power distribution systems for the aircraft, while Meggitt Inc. will be providing the fuel system.

"By using Astronics solid state power distribution systems, we provide enhanced reliability, weight savings, and advanced control capabilities for the V-280 Valor, Meggitt will be providing the fuel system," said John Garrison, president and CEO of Bell Helicopter. "Team Valor continues to align interests and resources on this clean sheet design, together delivering technology and innovation that reduces cost, weight and complexity in order to make the next generation of tiltrotor technology more affordable.

“This program allows Meggitt to showcase its ability to design and produce complete aviation fuel systems after a long history pioneering the ballistically-resistant fuel tanks carried by nearly every US military aircraft in service today," said Kevin Shaffer, global marketing director for Meggitt Polymers & Composite. "Meggitt has a longstanding relationship with Bell and we are delighted to be a part of this vital life-saving program.”

“Astronics is very proud to be selected as a teaming partner on the Bell V-280 program," said Kellsey Justus, vice president of Astronics product line. "Building on our successful work on the Bell 525 and 505 programs, Astronics will be providing the primary and secondary electrical power distribution system for the V-280 tiltrotor. We are pleased to continue our relationship with Bell by participating in this exciting program that sets the stage for the future of vertical lift and the latest innovations in power distribution technology.”

The transformational features of Bell Helicopter's third generation tiltrotor technologies within the Joint Multi Role (JMR) Technology Demonstrator (TD) reduce risk and inform the requirements for the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) program.  With increased maintainability and component and systems reliability, the Bell V-280 is designed to deliver the best value in procurement, operations and support, and force structure. With twice the speed and range of the U.S. Army’s current fleet, the Bell V-280 Valor will offer commanders a combat maneuver platform with the operational agility and effectiveness to self-deploy and perform multiple vertical lift missions.

Team Valor is a group comprised of leading aerospace companies bringing the best engineering resources, industrial capabilities and critical thinking to meet the U.S. Army’s needs.

(Images provided by Bell Helicopter)

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.com