Vertical Flight

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis plans to ask Congress to reach the bipartisan consensus needed to pass the Trump administration’s fiscal year 2018 defense budget and will pledge to follow up in FY-19 with a request that will increase the size of the military.

The Army is seeking industry input on the mission systems architecture demonstration component of a key aviation science and technology effort, according to a solicitation on Federal Business Opportunities.

The Air Force is asking for $354.5 million in its fiscal year 2018 research and development budget for the Combat Rescue Helicopter program, which passed the critical design review for its platform in May.

The Air Force plans to release the final request for proposals for the UH-1N Huey recapitalization program July 17, and laid out its anticipated production schedule in slides from its most recent industry day.

Army aviators and their European counterparts are taking steps to improve interoperability in advance of a potential conflict in the region.

PHILADELPHIA, PA. -- Boeing officials plan to seek clarity from the Air Force about changes included in the latest draft request for proposals in the competition to replace the UH-1N Huey fleet, saying they’re unsure why the service is pushing certain requirements and seem to be pursuing a development program rather than an off-the-shelf procurement.

The Air Force will judge helicopters pitched to replace the UH-1N Huey on four criteria that were added into the classified second draft request for proposals earlier this month, a service spokeswoman told Inside the Air Force this week.

NASHVILLE, TN -- While the initial effort on Future Vertical Lift is focused on a medium-lift platform, the Army’s top priority remains an armed reconnaissance aircraft, according to the service's aviation branch chief.

NASHVILLE, TN -- The future success of Army aviation will depend on innovation not only in platforms, but in the service’s approach to warfare, according to a senior leader.