BELL UNVEILS ITS INAUGURAL BAHRAIN AH-1Z VIPER
Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), marked the achievement of delivering the initial AH-1Z Viper assault helicopter for the Kingdom of Bahrain on September 30. Bell handed over the first of twelve production units to the Naval Air Systems Command under the 2019 foreign military sales (FMS) agreement. These international military sales of the AH-1Z introduce the advanced, specialized capabilities of the aircraft directly to global operators, enhancing interoperability and boosting the effectiveness of allied forces. The helicopter will be ready for dispatch to Bahrain through the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) prior to its transport to Bahrain in 2022.
“This is a remarkable accomplishment by the H-1 Program, bringing the Royal Bahraini Air Force closer to leveraging the advanced capabilities of the AH-1Z,” stated Mike Deslatte, Bell H-1 Vice President and Program Director. “The talented individuals of Team Viper, comprising top-tier suppliers, have excelled in delivering to the U.S. Government, on schedule and within contract terms.”
Bell engineered the AH-1Z Viper specifically to fulfill the rigorous operational demands of the U.S. Marine Corps, emphasizing full marinization and a minimized logistical footprint. The aircraft features a completely integrated glass cockpit and can carry a diverse range of munitions.
The advanced composite rotor system significantly bolsters the Viper’s capability to deliver close air support to ground units in any setting, while the fully integrated Target Sight System (TSS) enhances pilots’ proficiency in efficiently identifying, acquiring, tracking, and engaging targets beyond maximum weapon range.
“The Viper will yield substantial advantages to the Bahrain Defence Force as they modernize their fleet of attack helicopters,” remarked Deslatte. “Possessing a proven, state-of-the-art platform will significantly contribute to Bahrain’s security while enhancing interoperability with U.S. forces.”
Bell is persistently working to supply aircraft to the U.S. Marine Corps, Bahrain, and the Czech Republic. The company also updates the H-1 with planned enhancements aimed at ensuring the Viper retains its strategic technological superiority throughout its operational lifespan.
