US Army designates FLRAA rotorcraft as MV-75

The US Army has officially designated its Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) as the MV-75, to be manufactured by Bell Textron. This is a key modernisation effort aimed at fielding the next generation of vertical lift tactical assault and utility aircraft for the Army and US Special Operations Command. A common legacy name for the aircraft like Black Hawk, Chinook or Apache is currently under consideration, the US Army adds.

The initial prototype will carry the designation YMV-75A, the US Army says. In line with military aircraft nomenclature, the “Y” prefix indicates a prototype, while the “A” denotes the initial model in the series. “MV” stands for multi-mission vertical takeoff, and “75” commemorates the Army’s founding year, 1775.

(Editor’s Note: we have the Apache, Black Hawk and Chinook, so the MV-75’s name should begin with a ‘D’ – Dakota perhaps?)

Designed to complement the Army’s current fleet of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, the MV-75A will be a survivable, long-range, high-speed platform capable of operating in contested environments, claims the US Army. The 14-seat aircraft’s extended reach and standoff capability will enhance tactical manoeuvring by special forces and infantry over operational and strategic distances.

The MV-75 family’s combat range is up to 800 nautical miles, and it cruises at 280 knots compared with the Black Hawk’s 320nm and 150 kts; its ferry range is more than 2,100nm. Being able to conduct casualty evacuations or raids on enemy forces faster and much further away than an ordinary helicopter can do, is potentially game-changing, according to Bell sources.

“The Army is committed to delivering the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft. It will provide the speed, range and endurance needed to conduct air assault, MEDEVAC and resupply missions for future large-scale combat operations,” said Brig. Gen. David Phillips, Program Executive Officer (PEO) Aviation. “We’re all looking forward to seeing the incredible impact the MV-75 will have on the Soldiers of tomorrow.”

The MV-75 was intended to enter Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) in 2028 and enter service in about 2030, but the US Army is reportedly considering compressing this schedule in order to field early aircraft faster.

A key enabler of the program is the deliberate integration of a Modular Open Systems Approach in the MV-75A design, acquisition and sustainment strategy. This approach, says the US Army, allows for faster fielding of threat-driven capabilities, while also promoting affordability and mission system commonality across platforms throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle.