The Phase 3.0 award covers Structural and Power Improvements for NextGen Effects, known as SPINE. Bell will begin modification work at its Amarillo Assembly Center in mid-2027.
First deliveries of upgraded aircraft are scheduled for 2028. The contract includes a base period and three option years.
SPINE is designed to increase electrical power available across the H-1 fleet. It also supports integration of new weapons, sensors, defensive systems and digital technologies.
“Beginning SPINE Phase 3.0 emphasizes the importance of this essential modernization effort and enables the USMC H-1 fleet to remain competitive with current and future capabilities,” said Danielle Markham, program manager, Bell. “SPINE will enable H-1 operators and maintainers to implement the equipment and technology needed to keep the aircraft as a fully interoperable member of the modern joint force throughout the lifetime of the H-1 fleet.”
The program was previously known as SIEPU. It provides additional electrical capacity and a scalable architecture for future upgrades.
The modernization also supports the Series A configuration for AH-1Z and UH-1Y aircraft. Series A includes improved defensive systems, digital interoperability and increased electrical power.
Bell said upgraded aircraft will also use an advanced data bus and Link 16. The configuration supports long-range net-enabled weapons and wider Joint Force connectivity.
The company said AH-1Zs and UH-1Ys could receive target locations from fixed-wing aircraft operating outside enemy missile range. Bell also said the helicopters can exploit low-altitude flight profiles available to rotary-wing platforms.
For the UH-1Y, SPINE includes improvements to fast-rope, hoist and litter mission kits. These upgrades are intended to support personnel recovery in austere environments.
“H-1s are essential to maintaining attack, strike, and utility capabilities within the Marine Corps and they do this while providing a large volume of fires. We are very pleased to see this modernization effort take another leap forward,” said Col Jason Duke, Program Manager, PMA-276.
“The SPINE program will provide a significant increase to overall H-1 electrical capability to optimize advanced battlefield technology and ensure the H-1 fleet will continue to be relevant into the 2040s.” The program is intended to extend the operational relevance of the Marine Corps H-1 fleet.
Bell completed the first SPINE upgrades on one UH-1Y and one AH-1Z in fall 2025. Both aircraft were then sent to Naval Air Station Patuxent River for flight testing.
The new contract starts broader fleet modification into the SPINE configuration at Amarillo. Bell said the effort builds on work by the U.S. government, the company and industry partners.
