Safran Electrical & Power has signed an agreement with Bell Textron to supply starter-generation systems for the U.S. Army’s future long-range assault aircraft (FLRAA) programme.
The advanced high-voltage starter-generator system, developed by Safran, will meet the evolving electrical needs of military aircraft with its high-speed rotor and advanced power electronics, ensuring excellent control and reliability. Design, development, and qualification will occur at Safran’s centres of excellence in Twinsburg, Ohio, and Sarasota, Florida.
The FLRAA, developed by Bell, is a next-generation vertical lift solution set to replace the Army’s UH-60 Blackhawk utility helicopters. It features a tiltrotor configuration, combining helicopter-like vertical take-off and landing capabilities with 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,” said Joshua Haury, General Manager of Twinsburg plant, Safran Electrical & Power. “Such high-voltage starter-generation systems will become an industry standard for future military programmes,” added Bruno Bellanger, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Power division, Safran Electrical & Power.
“Bell is committed to delivering performance, reliability, and affordability for our war fighters as we work alongside the Army to modernise its fleet,” said Ryan Ehinger, Senior Vice President and Programme 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.”
