Bell advances to next stage of US Army’s aviator training programme competition
The Bell 505 is being proffered as a replacement candidate for the UH-72A Lakota. (Photo: Bell)
The US Army plans to award a contract through its Flight School Next competition to replace its UH-72A Lakota by late 2026.
Military rotorcraft manufacturer Bell has announced that it has advanced to the second phase of the US Army’s Flight School Next (FSN) programme competition.
Bell’s announcement makes it the first manufacturer to progress to the second stage of this programme, leveraging the Bell 505 as its proffered solution. According to the US Army, with the platform now deemed as selectable, phase two will consist of a presentation from industry, focused on its submitted solution’s application.
Flight School Next is the US Army’s new programme to train aviators, with the force looking for a new aircraft type and a new curriculum.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![How defence sovereignty is driving middle power jet programmes]()
How defence sovereignty is driving middle power jet programmes
While moving away from US-made equipment towards home-grown options is a rising preference for some countries, there are multiple hurdles to overcome to compete with the US’s expansive global footprint and dominance.
-
![Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks]()
Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks
Both sixth-generation combat aircraft programmes are still awaiting major key decisions from respective governments with regards to funding or future direction, but industry and governmental officials remain optimistic of progress going forward.
-
![SOF Week 2026: US Army to conduct trials with Mountain Horse’s containerised drone launcher]()
SOF Week 2026: US Army to conduct trials with Mountain Horse’s containerised drone launcher
The Mountain Horse Containerised Autonomous Drone Delivery System has been engineered for dispersed, forward UAV operations. It can store, protect, charge, launch and recover drones.
-
![SOF Week 2026: AFSOC unveils deployable Block II OA-1K Skyraider II]()
SOF Week 2026: AFSOC unveils deployable Block II OA-1K Skyraider II
AFSOC has revealed a new Block II variant of the OA-1K Skyraider II featuring rapid deployment and reassembly capabilities designed to support expeditionary special operations missions.
-
![British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system]()
British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system
The UK MoD said it would narrow down the competitors from four to two later in the year, with those selected going on to develop the prototype drone that will operate as loyal wingman to the British Army’s Apache AH-64E helicopters.
