Bell Textron has secured a $33.64 million contract to upgrade the structural and electrical systems of the US Marine Corps’ AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters through the Structural and Power Improvements for Next-Generation Effects (SPINE) Phase III program. The contract includes A-kits, D-kits, power generation components, drivetrain assemblies, spare parts, and related engineering support. Work will primarily be conducted in Fort Worth, Texas, with completion expected by July 2028. The SPINE upgrade replaces existing electrical subsystems with a scalable architecture designed to support future weapons, sensors, mission computers, and networked capabilities. The AH-1Z and UH-1Y share more than 84% common components, improving logistics efficiency. The program enables integration of advanced data links, Link 16 connectivity, improved defensive systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and next-generation precision weapons.
