Safran Electrical & Power has signed a deal with Bell Textron to provide the starter-gen systems for the U.S. Army’s new FLRAA program supplying an advanced high-voltage starter-generator system, capable of producing the power for military jets.
Safran Electrical & Power, a leader in aircraft electrical systems, announced that they have signed an agreement with Bell Textron Inc. to provide the starter-generation systems for the U.S. Army’s new Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program. Safran will supply an advanced high-voltage starter-generator system, capable of producing the power necessary to meet the evolving electrical needs of military aircraft. This system will feature a high-speed rotor and advanced power electronics, providing excellent control and reliability. The design, development, and qualification will take place at the Safran Electrical & Power centers of excellence located in Twinsburg, Ohio, and Sarasota, Florida.
The FLRAA weapons system, being developed by Bell, will be the next-generation vertical lift solution intended to replace the Army’s Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk utility helicopters. The FLRAA configuration is a tiltrotor with the hybrid capability of a helicopter for vertical take-off and landing, plus the range and speed of a twin turboprop aircraft.
“We are thrilled that Bell has selected our high-voltage starter-generator as a single source to equip their innovative FLRAA platform. This new agreement is a mark of confidence and strengthens decades of relationship with Bell on both commercial and military helicopters,” said Joshua Haury, General Manager of the Twinsburg plant, Safran Electrical & Power.
This partnership marks a significant milestone for Safran Electrical & Power, reinforcing their position as a leading provider of advanced electrical systems for military applications. The high-voltage starter-generator system they will supply is designed to meet the rigorous demands of the FLRAA program, ensuring that the aircraft will have the necessary power and reliability to perform in diverse and challenging environments.
“Such a high-voltage starter-generation system will become an industry standard for future military programs,” added Bruno Bellanger, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Power division, Safran Electrical & Power.
The FLRAA program is part of the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) initiative, which aims to develop a new generation of advanced vertical lift aircraft to replace the current fleet of aging helicopters. The program’s goal is to provide the Army with more capable, efficient, and versatile aircraft that can operate in a wide range of missions and environments.
“Bell is committed to delivering performance, reliability, and affordability for our warfighters as we work alongside the Army to modernize its fleet,” said Ryan Ehinger, Senior Vice President and Program Director for FLRAA, Bell. “We are pleased to have Safran Electrical & Power on the team to offer their innovative solution for FLRAA’s starter-generator system,” he further added.
By selecting Safran’s high-voltage starter-generator system, Bell is ensuring that the FLRAA will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology that enhances performance and reliability. This collaboration underscores the importance of innovation and partnership in developing advanced military capabilities.
As the FLRAA program progresses, Safran Electrical & Power’s role will be crucial in ensuring that the new aircraft meets the high standards required by the U.S. Army. The advanced technology and expertise that Safran brings to the table will help Bell deliver a cutting-edge solution that addresses the needs of modern warfare and future operational requirements.
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In summary, the agreement between Safran Electrical & Power and Bell Textron Inc. to provide starter-generation systems for the FLRAA program highlights the critical role of advanced electrical systems in modern military aircraft. This partnership will contribute to the development of a next-generation vertical lift solution that enhances the capabilities of the U.S. Army, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of military aviation technology.
