via Marines’ Future Helicopter Will Be Optionally Manned: General | DoD Buzz

Refreshing news for helicopter OEMs.
So far, Navies have been utilizing very small platforms mainly for ISR and SAR support operations, such as the Italian Navy with the Schiebel Camcopter S-100, or the Spanish Navy using Saab’s Skeldar V-200.
Although some developments provided also for limited aerial fire support and precision targeting, such as Northrop Grumman’s MQ-8 Fire Scout (A and B models), rather than helicopter OEMs, these programs are led by system integrators.
Recently, the US Navy launched the development and test of a more capable Fire Scout version – the MQ-8 C, based on a Bell 407 platform, aiming at performing also ASV and MCM missions more effectively. Again, this program is led by Northrop Grumman as system integrator, with Bell Helicopter acting as mere supplier of a green platform.
A more platform-led program based on Boeing’s Unmanned Little Bird H-6U, was promoted by the French Navy with Thales and DCNS playing a primary role.
Nevertheless, nothing compares with the new perspective opened by the US Marine Corps, with a clear-cut requirement for a more capable OPV (Optionally Manned Vehicle) to deliver cargo as an UAV, or to perform complex naval operations as a “normal” manned helicopter.
Naval helicopter OEMs better be prepared to grasp the opportunity and take the challenge of this new FVL requirement!