On March 17, 2026, Bell announced that the first AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters upgraded under the U.S. Marine Corps’ SPINE program had completed modification work and were transferred to Naval Air Station Patuxent River for continued flight testing. Bell stated that SPINE will allow the H-1 fleet to integrate enhanced weapon systems and support future capabilities as part of a broader modernization effort aimed at increasing lethality, improving survivability and reinforcing the fleet’s relevance in modern combat operations. The announcement marks an important step for the Marine Corps, whose H-1 platforms continue to play a central role in expeditionary aviation, armed escort, close support and multi-mission deployments. Reported through Bell’s official communication, the milestone highlights how structural, power and systems upgrades are being used to prepare the H-1 fleet for the operational demands of future high-intensity warfare. Read Full Defense News At This Link.
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