In a significant development, The Boeing Co., located in Mesa, Arizona, has secured a hybrid contract worth $9,312,900 for post-production support services for the AH-6i light attack/multi-mission helicopter. This contract highlights Boeing's dedication to cutting-edge aviation solutions and positions Mesa as a hub for aerospace excellence.
AH-6i Helicopter Overview
The AH-6i, part of Boeing's helicopter gunship series, is inspired by the MH-6 Little Bird and MD 500 family. Crafted by Boeing Rotorcraft Systems, it includes iterations like the Unmanned Little Bird (ULB) demonstrator, the A/MH-6X Mission Enhanced Little Bird (MELB), and the AH-6i.
Contract Details and Scope
Boeing's achievement involves soliciting bids online, with work set to occur in Mesa, Arizona, and an expected completion date of November 27, 2027. The hybrid contract, valued at $9,312,900, is supported by Fiscal 2024 Foreign Military Sales (Saudi Arabia) funds.
The U.S. Army Contracting Command in Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, leads the contracting activity, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind this project.
AH-6i Mission Capabilities
The AH-6i is designed for superior performance across various missions, including light attack, precision strikes, anti-armor operations, and combat search and rescue. Leveraging over 30 years of AH-64 Apache evolution, it integrates capabilities such as an advanced cockpit, fully integrated weapons, sensors, and a glass cockpit for precision engagements.
Global Impact and Readiness Optimization
Boeing's commitment to optimizing AH-6 fleet readiness globally showcases a dedication to excellence. The aircraft's airframe design prioritizes crew safety under high payload conditions, demonstrating a legacy of superior survivability.
Utilizing advanced manufacturing processes, the AH-6 is engineered for rapid preparation, with a trained ground crew capable of transforming it from transportation configuration to flight-ready within seven minutes.
U.S. Army's Investment in AH-6i
The U.S. Army's $234 million foreign military sales contract to supply 24 AH-6i helicopters to Saudi Arabia highlights the international significance of this aerospace marvel. Announced by the U.S. Department of Defense on August 29, 2016, this contract was part of a broader arms deal negotiated between the U.S. and Saudi Arabian governments in 2010.
Boeing's anticipation of the Saudi government's acceptance for AH-6i deployment in the Saudi Arabia National Guard positions this helicopter as a crucial asset in the region.
Boeing's AH-6i Helicopter and the recent contract for post-production support services mark a significant milestone in aerospace history. As Mesa, Arizona, takes center stage in this endeavor, the AH-6i stands as a symbol of innovation and adaptability, ready to meet the diverse challenges of modern missions worldwide.
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