Bell Ramps Up Production of US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne II Aircraft

Bell Textron has been awarded a $43.2 million contract to increase production of the U.S. Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne II aircraft, according to the Fort Worth Report. The agreement, announced June 30, 2026, marks a significant expansion of Bell’s role in supplying military aviation systems, with the company also continuing to produce the Viper and Venom helicopters.

The MV-75 Cheyenne II, a multirole utility helicopter, is designed for transport, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation missions. The contract, which includes advanced helicopter parts, aims to accelerate production to meet the U.S. Army’s modernization goals. A spokesperson for Bell Textron confirmed the award but did not provide further details on the scope of the work.

Bell Textron, based in Fort Worth, Texas, has long been a key player in defense contracting. The company’s Viper and Venom helicopters, used for training and combat support, have been operational since the 1990s. The MV-75 Cheyenne II, a newer model, represents an upgrade in technology and capability for the U.S. military.

The U.S. Army’s procurement of the MV-75 Cheyenne II aligns with broader efforts to replace aging fleet components. A 2025 report by the Government Accountability Office highlighted the need for modernized helicopters to address maintenance backlogs and operational demands. The $43.2 million contract is expected to allocate resources for both production and research into next-generation aviation systems.

Fort Worth, a hub for aerospace manufacturing, has seen increased activity in defense contracts over the past decade. Local officials noted the award as a boost for regional employment and industrial capacity. “This contract underscores Fort Worth’s critical role in national defense,” said a city council representative. “It supports hundreds of jobs and strengthens our aerospace ecosystem.”

The U.S. Army’s acquisition of the MV-75 Cheyenne II follows a 2023 pilot program that tested the aircraft’s performance in diverse conditions. Results from the program, released in 2024, emphasized the helicopter’s versatility and reliability. The new contract will likely expand these capabilities, with an emphasis on integrating advanced avionics and communication systems.

Bell Textron’s recent focus on military