Bell Textron Inc. has successfully completed the assembly of two wing structures for the MV-75 Cheyenne, marking a significant milestone in the development of the next-generation aircraft. Bell will integrate these wings into the first two MV-75 test aircraft, advancing the program's build process.

The tiltrotor wing is a key piece of structure for the MV-75. It provides the structural backbone of the aircraft with robust strength, optimised stiffness, and enhanced survivability. As the industry leader in tiltrotor technology, these wings are a core competency for Bell. All key components are made within our facilities, including the composite wing skins and spars, the tailored aluminium substructure, and assembly.

"After decades of building V-22 wings, we've learned new ways to do things better, faster and smarter by implementing these lessons into the design upfront," says Culley Shafer, director of operations, Amarillo, Bell. "The team is constantly evolving, making adjustments, refining sequencing and implementing engineering changes to keep raising the bar on quality, safety and efficiency."

The first wing, completed in February, was fabricated with 90% fewer labour hours compared to the initial V-22 wing build. Building on this success, the second wing was produced with an additional 40% reduction, highlighting the team's focus on affordability and production readiness.

With the completion of the wing structures, the team is currently integrating their system provisions. The next step of the build assembly involves mating the wing structures with the fuselage, currently being assembled at the Wichita Assembly Center, and the Nacelle, which is also progressing through assembly.

"As the assembly line continues to evolve, and systems content starts being populated into wings, we'll keep learning and improving. This ongoing innovation will help shape how we build this aircraft for decades to come," adds Shafer.