Aircrew Integrated Systems

The Aircrew Integrated Systems program is a key Army initiative funded under Budget Line Item 6380AZ3110, focused on the procurement and modernization of aviation life support equipment for rotary wing aircrews. The primary goal of this program is to provide Army aircrew members with advanced protective, survival, and mission equipment that enhances operational effectiveness, safety, and survivability. This line item supports the phased replacement of the legacy Air Warrior (AW) system with the Air Soldier System (Air SS), addressing capability gaps and equipping aircrews with modernized mission electronics and ergonomic gear.

The Air Soldier System (Air SS) Soldier Kits are central to the program, comprising clothing, individual equipment, and integrated mission electronics. These kits are designed to reduce the bulk and weight of soldier-worn gear while improving situational awareness and mission performance. Objectives include the procurement of improved flight helmets, personal survival equipment, and Heads-Up Displays that provide enhanced flight symbology for day and night operations. The Aircrew Combat Equipment component delivers next-generation survival vests and soft body armor inserts, further reducing the physical burden on aircrew members and increasing their safety and lethality.

The Air SS Aircraft Kits and associated platform-mounted components are another major focus of this budget line. These kits enable the integration of aircrew equipment with aircraft systems, supporting seamless airframe interface and installation. The program funds the procurement and installation of airframe integration kits, which are essential for ensuring that aircrew systems function effectively within the operational environment of Army rotary wing aircraft.

This integration supports targeted modernization efforts for the enduring aviation fleet and aligns with broader Army priorities such as Network, Soldier Lethality, and Future Vertical Lift. The Nett Warrior-Aviation (NW-A) initiative is a critical element within Air SS, replacing paper-based flight information publications and providing digital mission planning tools. NW-A enhances air/ground convergence and situational awareness for aircrews, enabling more effective coordination and mission execution.

The procurement of NW-A hardware and mission planning adapters is justified by the need to modernize mission electronics, streamline operations, and improve the safety and efficiency of Army aviation missions. The budget line also includes funding for training, support equipment, and logistics necessary to field and sustain the Air SS capabilities. New equipment training ensures that aircrew members are proficient in the use of advanced gear and electronics, while initial spares and support equipment maintain operational readiness.

Contract logistics support and program management activities are funded to oversee the deployment and sustainment of these systems, ensuring that fielded units receive ongoing support and upgrades as needed. A portion of the funding is allocated to Overseas Operations Costs (OOC), supporting the procurement of Air SS capabilities for organizations engaged in contingency operations. This includes NW-A, Rotary Wing Helmets, and ACE components, which are utilized in operational theaters to enhance aircrew safety and mission effectiveness.

The OOC funds are derived from former Overseas Contingency Operations appropriations and are targeted toward units conducting ongoing missions abroad. The program supports Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve units, with procurement quantities and costs varying annually based on subsystem component needs and competitive contract awards. The FY2026 request reflects adjustments for efficiency initiatives and competitive pricing, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to advance Army aviation modernization priorities.