Boeing and Leonardo have announced a strategic partnership to compete for the U.S. Army’s Flight School Next training contract under a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) model. The collaboration merges Boeing’s extensive military training expertise with Leonardo’s AW119T training helicopter to deliver a fully integrated rotary-wing training solution.
The team aims to provide a comprehensive, scalable training system designed to enhance aviator proficiency and deliver long-term value throughout the program. Boeing brings decades of experience supporting AH-64 Apache crews worldwide — including simulation, instructor development, and mission systems integration.
“We are combining the strengths of two industry leaders to provide the Army with a turnkey, innovative rotary-wing training solution that enhances aviator proficiency and operational efficiency while delivering measurable value over the life of the program,” said John Chicoli, Senior Director at Boeing Global Services.
The AW119T, a single-engine, combat-proven training helicopter, has logged more than 100,000 flight hours and is already in service with U.S. military programs. Leonardo currently maintains a fleet of 130 AW119T aircraft near Fort Rucker, Alabama, ensuring strong logistical readiness and rapid maintenance support.
“The AW119T is a reliable platform that supports U.S. military training every day. With our sustainment network established in Florida, Leonardo and Boeing are uniquely positioned to deliver immediate capability and enduring value to the Army,” said Clyde Woltman, CEO of Leonardo Helicopters U.S.
The proposed solution includes mature aircraft, qualified instructors, simulators, and a blended live-virtual training approach. The partnership also seeks to increase training efficiency through automation, adaptive scheduling, and established production and sustainment infrastructure, ensuring a modern, high-performance training ecosystem for the U.S. Army.
