FORT WORTH, Texas, April 11 (UPI) -- A new tilt-rotor helicopter, called the V-280 Valor, was unveiled by Bell Helicopter this week.
The aircraft is being offered to the U.S. Army by Bell for the service's Joint Multi Role/Future Vertical Lift (FVL) Technology Demonstrator program.
"The introduction of the Bell V-280 Valor underscores our commitment to our military customers," said John Garrison, president and chief executive officer of Bell Helicopter. "The Bell V-280's unmatched capabilities in speed, range and payload, and its operational agility combine to deliver the best value for the U.S Army.
"This aircraft is the most advanced and operationally effective vertical lift solution, providing the warfighter a decisive advantage."
Bell said the V-280 Valor has a "clean sheet" design that reduces complexity compared to previous generation tiltrotors. It has fewer parts and non-rotating fixed engines.
"The Bell V-280 is a combat multiplier with a cruise speed of 280 knots and combat range of up to 800 nautical miles," according to Mitch Snyder, executive vice-president for military programs at Bell Helicopter. "Tiltrotor is the only vertical lift platform that can rapidly self-deploy to any theater."
"Bell Helicopter is leading the development of next-generation tiltrotor technology, because it's the best technology for future vertical lift. The U.S. Army's JMR/TD Operational Effectiveness Analysis Report stated that advantages in speed and fuel efficiency made the tiltrotor the most operationally effective concept aircraft," said Snyder. "Based on a strong foundation of 55 years of tiltrotor experience, including combat-proven platforms, Bell Helicopter has created the ultimate solution for the Army's FVL needs."
The aircraft was unveiled at the 2013 Army Aviation Association of America's Annual Professional Forum and Exposition in Texas.
