Boeing and Leonardo have partnered to compete for the US Army’s Flight School Next training program, which aims to replace the existing helicopter pilot instruction system with a modernized training model.
Under the proposal, Boeing will lead training design and systems integration, leveraging its expertise in AH-64 Apache pilot instruction through advanced simulators, live exercises, and instructor development programs.
Leonardo, meanwhile, will supply its AW119T training helicopter platform and provide maintenance and logistics support through its facilities in Florida and Pennsylvania.
The companies’ joint bid outlines a contractor-owned, contractor-operated training framework integrating aircraft, simulators, instructors, and digital management tools. The goal is to increase flight hours, improve proficiency, and optimize logistics through automated maintenance and adaptive scheduling.
If awarded, the contract would retire the Army’s UH-72A Lakota fleet, introducing a more flexible and mission-representative training solution.
AW119T at the Core of Proposal
The AW119T serves as the centerpiece of the Boeing-Leonardo bid. This single-engine, multirole helicopter supports both training and operational missions and is already fielded by Israel, Portugal, and Spain for pilot instruction, search and rescue, and surveillance tasks.
Equipped with dual flight controls, a digital glass cockpit, and night-vision compatible avionics, the AW119T provides a platform suitable for advanced flight instruction.
Within the US Navy, over 130 AW119T helicopters are in active service, accumulating more than 100,000 flight hours, including extensive instrument flight operations.
Expanding Digital Pilot Training Across US Services
The Flight School Next initiative forms part of a wider Department of Defense modernization effort to prepare aircrews for evolving battlefield conditions.
The US Army is increasingly employing synthetic training environments that integrate live and virtual elements to improve readiness while cutting costs.
Similarly, the US Air Force has revamped its Undergraduate Pilot Training program with virtual reality headsets, AI-driven performance tracking, and adaptive learning platforms to accelerate pilot proficiency.
Meanwhile, the US Navy continues to expand its simulator networks, recently awarding a $267-million contract to HII’s Mission Technologies division for new curricula, upgraded learning systems, and digital tools that enhance operational preparedness and career development.
