Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) (TASE: ARSP.B1) is supplying the nacelles (the outer casing of the engine) and seating systems for Bell Helicopter's V-280 Valor tiltrotor combat helicopter.
Bell Helicopter EVP military business Lisa Atherton said, "IAI integrated seamlessly into Team Valor's digital engineering and manufacturing environment and delivered highly specialized parts on schedule and with exacting detail. In addition to the crew seats, IAI has provided more than 700 details and assemblies including sheet metal formings, fabricated composites, and additive manufacturing details. These are all vital elements which make up the V-280 Valor's revolutionary fixed engine/rotating proprotor nacelles. IAI continues to be a vital and valued part of the V-280 program."
IAI joined the V-280 effort in October 2014. IAI deliveries for the V-280 started in May 2015 and concluded in August 2016. Participation in the V-280 program called for IAI to become the first international teammate to be integrated into the Bell Helicopter digital environment, enabling rapid collaboration and reduced lead time.
IAI EVP and general manager Military Aircraft Group Shaul Shahar said, "Our company has earned a global reputation as a leader in aerospace technologies, and we are happy to use our advanced capabilities to create this unique and technologically advanced aerial platform. IAI's unique manufacturing processes allow cost reduction, enabling Team Valor to deliver a high quality and affordable tiltrotor aircraft. We are proud of our contribution to the Bell V-280 Valor and believe our relationship with Bell Helicopter will continue to be strengthened in the future."
The advanced technology of tiltrotor flight delivers unmatched efficiency and range unavailable with traditional aircraft. The V-280 provides the high speeds and endurance of fixed wing flight while also providing low speed agility and flexibility of rotary flight mode.
IAI offers a wide array of services for the maintenance, refurbishment, and upgrade of military aircraft and helicopters. The company utilizes a broad supply chain which incorporates several Israeli and US suppliers. In addition to providing parts for the V-280, IAI worked alongside Bell Materials and Processes Control to help certify several international suppliers in accordance with Bell Helicopter process specifications.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 9, 2016
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