Advanced Helicopter Training System

The Advanced Helicopter Training System (AHTS) is an initiative by the Navy to enhance training for advanced rotary wing and intermediate tilt-rotor students. It prepares them for roles as Naval Aviators in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The program aims to address capacity and capability gaps identified in the Chief of Naval Air Training's rotary training pipeline. This is achieved through the procurement of the TH-73A air vehicle, which features a digital cockpit and complies with Federal Aviation Regulations for both visual and instrument flight rules.

The AHTS includes several components such as the TH-73A air vehicle, a Ground Based Training System (GBTS), and a comprehensive maintenance and logistics infrastructure. The GBTS integrates flight training devices, revised curricula, computer-aided instruction, classroom instruction, and necessary facilities to support these activities. The program ensures that student naval aviators transition smoothly from primary training to rotary training and eventually to fleet operations. This system-of-systems approach provides comprehensive training in helicopter familiarization, basic and radio instruments, as well as basic warfighting skills.

A key goal of the AHTS is to replace the aging TH-57B/C Training System, which has been in service for over 35 years. The older system faces challenges such as obsolescence, increased maintenance costs, and safety concerns. By transitioning to the TH-73A aircraft, the Navy aims to modernize its training capabilities with a more reliable platform that reduces operational costs while enhancing safety and effectiveness. The anticipated service life of these new aircraft is between 25 to 30 years, ensuring long-term sustainability for naval aviation training programs.

The procurement strategy involves a Firm Fixed Price contract awarded in January 2020, with deliveries scheduled through various fiscal years. The final option was awarded in FY 2023, ensuring that sufficient quantities of aircraft are available to meet training demands. This strategic acquisition addresses current deficiencies and positions the Navy to better prepare pilots for integration into fleet operations with modernized equipment and training methodologies.