The Iraqi Army Aviation Command (IAAC) has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its rotary-wing fleet with the delivery of the first Bell 505 Jet Ranger X (JRX) training helicopters. Bell officials confirmed this milestone at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024. This delivery marks the beginning of Iraq’s acquisition of these advanced training helicopters, which are expected to play a crucial role in the IAAC’s pilot training programs. Iraq joins a growing list of military customers for the Bell 505, including Bahrain, Indonesia, Jamaica, Jordan, Montenegro, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Notably, deliveries of ten Bell 505 helicopters to Jordan were completed on July 24, 2024. Additionally, BAR Aviation Uganda operates the Bell 505 in a para-public capacity, highlighting its versatility and widespread adoption.
The Bell 505 Jet Ranger X is an American/Canadian light helicopter developed and manufactured by Bell Helicopter. It was first unveiled at the 2013 Paris Airshow as the Bell SLS (Short Light Single) before being rebranded at the HAI Heli-Expo in 2014. Since its certification by Transport Canada in December 2016, approximately 500 units have been sold by 2023, with the helicopter being used for personal, sightseeing, law enforcement, and training purposes. Production of the Bell 505 began in earnest in 2016 at a dedicated facility in Lafayette, Louisiana. The helicopter is designed to meet the rigorous demands of military pilot training programs. With over 100,000 flight hours across more than 55 countries, the Bell 505 is recognized for its reliability and performance.
The Bell 505 helicopter boasts the only dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) in its class, providing precise engine management. The modern NVG-compatible glass cockpit enhances operational safety and situational awareness, crucial for night operations. The Bell 505 includes a high inertia rotor system, offering excellent autorotation handling characteristics and sufficient rotor RPM for safe and consistent full-touchdown landing practices. Safety is a paramount consideration, with energy-attenuating seats, crash-resistant fuel tanks, and four-point seat belts. Advanced displays, including a Traffic Information System, Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System, Garmin’s Helicopter Synthetic Vision Technology™, Moving Map Display, and “Pathways in the Sky” display. The helicopter is powered by the reliable Safran Arrius 2R engine with dual-channel FADEC. Communication capabilities encompass VHF, UHF, FM, and SATCOM radio systems.
The introduction of the Bell 505 into the IAAC’s fleet signifies a major enhancement in Iraq’s ability to train its rotary-wing pilots efficiently and safely. The Bell 505’s advanced technology, ease of maintenance, and low operating costs make it an ideal platform for military training. As Iraq continues to modernize its military capabilities, the Bell 505 will play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of aviation warfighters for diverse and demanding missions. In 2023, the U.S. State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Iraq of Bell Helicopter Contracted Logistics Support (CLS) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $300 million. This notification is for the combined CLS and FSR maintenance support for the following Bell aircraft: three (3) 407 variants, 206B3, OH-58A/C Kiowa, Huey II and 505.
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