TL;DR
- Lockheed Martin has advanced to Phase III of the U.S. Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) competition.
- The company has selected the Robinson R66 NxG helicopter to serve as the primary training platform.
- This selection aims to provide a modern, affordable, and high-quality training pipeline for Army aviators.
- The R66 NxG offers a proven airframe with modern upgrades suitable for initial rotary-wing training.
- Lockheed Martin will act as the prime training systems integrator for the FSN enterprise.
What’s New / Why It Matters
Lockheed Martin’s progression to Phase III of the Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) competition signifies a significant step in modernizing Army aviator training.
The selection of the Robinson R66 NxG helicopter as the training platform is particularly noteworthy. This choice aims to deliver a more affordable and efficient training pipeline, producing fundamentally better aviators ready for their next missions.
The FSN program seeks to revamp the Initial Entry Rotary-Wing (IERW) training process. By advancing to Phase III, Lockheed Martin is demonstrating its comprehensive solution, which includes advanced modeling, simulation, and synthetic training alongside live-flight instruction. This integrated approach is designed to accelerate training and ensure aviators are proficient with essential skills.
At a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Competition Phase | Phase III of Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) |
| Training Platform | Robinson R66 NxG helicopter |
| Provider of Training Platform | Robinson Helicopter Company |
| Lockheed Martin’s Role | Prime training systems integrator |
| Program Focus | Initial Entry Rotary-Wing (IERW) |
Why the Robinson R66 NxG?
The Robinson R66 NxG helicopter was chosen for its suitability for Army aviator training. It builds upon the established R66 airframe, incorporating a suite of modern upgrades designed to enhance the learning experience.
Robinson Helicopter Company, a leading civil helicopter manufacturer, will supply a fleet of these aircraft, along with necessary spare parts and technical support.
David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, highlighted the aircraft’s capabilities, stating, “The R66 offers a modern, American-made solution that ensures readiness at a fraction of the current cost.
Its simple, responsive flight characteristics are crucial for mastering the fundamental stick-and-rudder skills necessary for any situation.” This focus on foundational skills is critical for developing well-rounded aviators.
Lockheed Martin’s Role and Experience
As the prime training systems integrator, Lockheed Martin is responsible for the entire FSN enterprise. This encompasses designing, delivering, and operating the training system. Their duties include managing the training system architecture, performance monitoring, supply-chain logistics, and the delivery of advanced simulation technologies.
Lockheed Martin brings extensive experience in providing turnkey training solutions globally. Past successes include the U.K. Military Flight Training System, the Australia AIR5428 Pilot Training System, and the Singapore Basic Wings Course.
These programs have a track record of producing proficient aviators efficiently and affordably, aligning with the Army’s objectives for FSN.
Techswire’s Take
Lockheed Martin’s advancement in the Flight School Next competition, coupled with the selection of the Robinson R66 NxG, represents a strategic move towards modernizing military helicopter pilot training.
The emphasis on a proven, yet updated, platform like the R66 NxG, combined with Lockheed Martin’s integrator expertise, suggests a focus on cost-effectiveness and operational readiness.
This development could set a new standard for how military flight training programs are structured and executed in the future, prioritizing efficiency and foundational skill development.