Bell, Lockheed, M1 Move Forward In Helicopter Training Program

The US Army has selected Bell, M1, and Lockheed Martin to move forward to the next phase of its Flight School Next competition, a program aimed at training helicopter pilots at Fort Rucker. The companies will submit a full written Commercial Solution Proposal for their offerings, with the goal of providing training for 900 to 1,500 rotary wing pilots per year. The program will utilize a contractor-owned, contractor-operated model, with the primes handling finances and logistical support, and the subs supplying helicopters and spare parts. The Army aims to make an award by the end of September, as reported by Breaking Defense.