CPI Aero contracted for AH-1Z components

Jan. 18 (UPI) -- CPI Aerostructures has received a contract to deliver AH-1Z attack helicopter components for Textron subsidiary Bell Helicopter.

The contract has the potential to be valued at $14.8 million, and is expected to be complete by December 2020. Following the delivery, Bell Helicopter will use the components to manufacture AH-1Z helicopters for the U.S. Marine Corps.

The agreement supports the Marine Corps' H-1 Program of Record, which facilitates the acquisition of 189 Viper aircraft.

"This follow-on contract illustrates the success of our strategy to secure strong positions within key national security programs such as the AH-1Z, and then follow through with exceptional program execution," CPI Aero president and CEO Douglas J. McCrosson said in a press release. "It is extremely satisfying that our focus on quality, value and customer service has resulted in CPI Aero continuing this work into the next decade."

Bell Helicopter's AH-1Z Viper is a twin-engine attack helicopter operated by two pilots, and can be used for air-to-air combat missions. The rotary-wing aircraft also comes integrated with Bell's Target Sight System to supplement range and accuracy.

The Viper can reach a maximum speed of 230 miles per hour, and can carry a payload of 5,764 pounds. While the U.S. Marines are the only primary operators of the aircraft, the government of Pakistan plans to procure nine more by the end of 2018, bringing its total fleet to 15 units.