Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT), along with Leonardo S.p.A., have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to assess collaborative prospects in the tiltrotor technology field.
As international trailblazers in the design, production, and maintenance of rotorcraft for both commercial and military uses, Bell and Leonardo boast a decades-long legacy of industrial partnership in traditional helicopters and tiltrotor technology cooperation.
This collaborative venture will commence earnestly with the NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Concept Study #5, wherein Leonardo will spearhead a tiltrotor architecture proposal with Bell providing assistance.
“This collaborative initiative between Bell and Leonardo underscores our collective vision that future rotorcraft will be shaped by the speed, range, and agility that only tiltrotor technology can provide,” stated Lisa Atherton, president and CEO of Bell. “We are excited to strengthen our alliance with Leonardo as we continue to explore innovative vertical lift projects in Europe and the United States.”
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, remarked, “We’re enthusiastic about exploring new joint ventures for the next wave of rotorcraft technologies, grounded in our shared understanding of the distinctive benefits of tiltrotors. Leonardo has persistently championed tiltrotor technologies to adapt to changing rotorcraft needs, especially as new demands arise in the marketplace.”
