Engine Installation Successful, 1st Flight to Come in 2024

Bell has announced another milestone in the development of their next-gen attack helicopter, the Invictus.

The brand spankin' new T901 Improved Turbine Engine was tendered to Bell Textron's Flight Research Center in Arlington, Texas, bringing together all the ingredients to finally bake that cake. Bell took a moment to show off the state of the build, expecting to have the prototype flying later in 2024. The team reportedly had "completed 96% of the competitive prototype" early this year as their existing prep for the Future Attack and Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) competition.

The nascent T901 engine is itself the focus of a development program all its own between GE and the army, with its flight clearance expected to be granted in 2024.

"On the way to first flight for the Bell 360, there are some crucial steps that must be completed to ensure the safe and rapid execution of a flight test program," said an upbeat Bell presser. "That includes functionally testing the aircraft, the Test Readiness Review and conducting restrained ground runs. This work will occur concurrently as the Army completes final testing for flight using the T901. The engine installation marks a key milestone for the Bell 360 Invictus. With an eye toward first flight, Bell and Team Invictus are ready to demonstrate how the Bell 360 can transform the Army’s reconnaissance mission with more speed, reach, and lethality."

FMI: www.bellflight.com