Bell Completes Modernization of First AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom Helicopters Under SPINE Program

The American company Bell has completed the upgrade of the first two H-1 family helicopters as part of the SPINE program.

The modernization involved the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter and the UH-1Y Venom multi-role helicopter, the company’s press service told Militarnyi.

“The completion of the upgrade of these first two helicopters under the SPINE program is a very important milestone for us,” said program director Scott Sims.

The program, previously known as SIEPU, is now officially called Structural and Power Improvements for NextGen Effects (SPINE). The name change highlights its focus on improving both airframe structure and engine performance.

The upgraded helicopters have now been transferred to Patuxent River Naval Air Station, where specialists will conduct a series of flight tests to determine the final equipment configuration. After testing is completed, the program will be scaled up, and production-upgraded aircraft will be delivered to the Marine Corps under future contracts.

The implementation of SPINE will also enable H-1 family helicopters to integrate advanced weapons systems and other перспективні technologies.

The modernization work lasted 19 months at the assembly center in Amarillo. The process began at Bell’s Drive Systems Center and Overhaul Center, where the electrical systems were upgraded and key structural components were reinforced.