Future Long Range Assault Aircraft Development

The Future Long Range Assault Aircraft Development program is integral to the Army's modernization under the Future Vertical Lift initiative. This effort focuses on creating a new generation of vertical lift aircraft to enhance the capabilities of the United States Armed Forces. Key objectives include improving maneuverability, range, speed, payload capacity, survivability, and reliability while reducing logistical demands. These advancements aim to support multi-domain operations for joint warfighters and maneuver forces.

The program targets the development of Capability Set 3 within the FVL family. It is designed to provide Combatant Commanders with improved deterrence, power projection, and tactical capabilities over various distances. A weapon system development contract was awarded in December 2022, initiating a rapid prototyping phase using Middle Tier of Acquisition authorities. The program uses a modular open systems approach to integrate advanced technologies and ensure affordability through strategic design configurations.

In Fiscal Year 2025, the focus shifts to post-Milestone B activities. These include developing a digital backbone aligned with Modular Open System Approach objectives and assembling developmental prototypes for qualification and testing. The engineering and manufacturing development phase covers all necessary developmental engineering, prototype manufacturing, testing, qualification, supportability planning, systems engineering, and program management activities. This phase aims to complete design activities leading up to the Critical Design Review and continue prototype manufacturing for evaluation.

The acquisition strategy for FLRAA employs a hybrid approach that combines elements from previous risk mitigation efforts with new acquisition authorities. This strategy supports life cycle affordability by incorporating cost reduction opportunities and digital engineering practices from design through sustainment. Additionally, FLRAA is one of the Army's pilot programs for developing digital engineering and life cycle intellectual property strategies. The goal is to deliver the first aircraft by Fiscal Year 2030 while addressing sustainability and maintainability early in the program lifecycle.