Bell and Safran Partner on Electrical Power Systems for U.S. Army FLRAA Program

Safran Electrical & Power, a prominent provider of aircraft electrical systems, has entered into an agreement with Bell Textron Inc. to supply starter-generation systems for the U.S. Army's Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program. Safran's advanced high-voltage starter-generator system will deliver the power needed for modern military aircraft, featuring high-speed rotor and sophisticated power electronics to ensure superior control and reliability. This system will be designed, developed, and qualified at Safran Electrical & Power's centers of excellence in Twinsburg, Ohio, and Sarasota, Florida.

By J Prakash

The FLRAA, being developed by Bell, is set to be the next-generation vertical lift aircraft, intended to replace the Army's Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters. The FLRAA will utilize a tiltrotor configuration, combining the vertical take-off and landing capability of a helicopter with the range and speed of a twin turboprop aircraft.

Joshua Haury, General Manager of Safran Electrical & Power's Twinsburg facility, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "We are delighted that Bell has chosen our high-voltage starter-generator to equip their innovative FLRAA platform. This agreement reflects our long-standing relationship with Bell on both commercial and military projects."

This collaboration represents a major milestone for Safran Electrical & Power, bolstering their status as a key supplier of advanced electrical systems for military applications. The high-voltage starter-generator system is engineered to meet the stringent requirements of the FLRAA program, ensuring the aircraft's power and reliability in various demanding environments.

Bruno Bellanger, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Safran Electrical & Power's Power division, added, "This high-voltage starter-generation system is poised to set a new standard for future military programs."

The FLRAA initiative is part of the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) program, aimed at developing advanced vertical lift aircraft to replace the current fleet of helicopters. The objective is to provide the Army with more capable, efficient, and versatile aircraft for diverse missions and environments.

Ryan Ehinger, Senior Vice President and Program Director for FLRAA at Bell, stated, "Bell is committed to delivering performance, reliability, and affordability as we work with the Army to modernize its fleet. We are excited to have Safran Electrical & Power onboard, offering their innovative starter-generator system for the FLRAA."

By choosing Safran’s high-voltage starter-generator, Bell ensures that the FLRAA will feature cutting-edge technology that enhances its performance and reliability. This partnership highlights the importance of innovation and collaboration in developing advanced military capabilities.

As the FLRAA program advances, Safran Electrical & Power’s contributions will be vital in meeting the U.S. Army's high standards. Safran's advanced technology and expertise will assist Bell in delivering a state-of-the-art solution tailored to modern warfare and future operational needs.

In conclusion, this collaboration will drive the development of a next-generation vertical lift solution, enhancing the U.S. Army's capabilities and maintaining its leadership in military aviation technology.

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