US Army's MV-75 FLRAA Embraces MOSA

The MV-75 Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) of the US Army is pioneering a new chapter in military aviation by implementing a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). This architectural framework facilitates swift and cost-efficient upgrades to critical aircraft systems, ensuring the aircraft's adaptability and effectiveness in response to emerging threats. By departing from conventional, tightly integrated systems, the MV-75 FLRAA enables the independent upgrade or replacement of individual components without necessitating a comprehensive redesign of the entire system.

By the end of 2024, the MV-75 FLRAA program office conducted a thorough evaluation of over 1,600 distinct use case attributes within a comprehensive model-based systems engineering (MBSE) framework provided by Bell Textron Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. These assessments confirmed the MV-75 FLRAA's capability to seamlessly incorporate future upgrades, including advanced sensors, weapons systems, and communication technologies, thereby ensuring the Army's technological superiority while optimising long-term cost efficiency and reducing downtime. This digital modelling approach enables engineers to identify and resolve integration challenges early in the design phase.

The MV-75 FLRAA is distinguished as one of the Army's pioneering "digital-first" weapon systems, utilising Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), digital twins—which are virtual representations of the physical aircraft—and the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). This strategy enables the Army to virtually optimise the MV-75 FLRAA's architecture and simulate its performance before physical construction, thereby reducing development risks and enhancing efficiency. This innovative approach equips the FLRAA not only for current battlefield conditions but also for future anticipated threats.

The Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) is a strategic framework utilized by the Department of Defence (DoD) to design adaptable and cost-efficient systems. As mandated by Title 10 U.S.C. 4401(b), MOSA is the preferred method for incorporating open systems in all major defence acquisition programs. This approach enables "plug-and-play" integration of system upgrades, allowing military equipment to evolve swiftly and economically by leveraging vendor competition and fostering innovation. In contrast to traditional procurement methods, which often involve costly and time-consuming custom integration, MOSA promotes competition and reduces expenses, ensuring the Army acquires the most advanced technology at the most competitive price.

A crucial element of the MV-75 FLRAA's Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) implementation involves establishing specific, measurable technical and operational objectives. Although the MV-75 FLRAA is designed for high-speed, long-range missions, it must also be capable of accommodating rapid system upgrades to maintain its relevance in a dynamic threat landscape. MOSA use cases, which involve real-world scenario testing, are instrumental in evaluating how effectively the MV-75 FLRAA meets these requirements. For instance, the integration of a new secure communication radio is streamlined, ensuring compatibility with existing cockpit controls, displays, and network architectures.

Importantly, the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) assists the Army in obtaining the intellectual property and data rights essential for managing future upgrades and preventing vendor lock-in. This approach offers flexibility in maintaining and advancing the MV-75 Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) throughout its anticipated service life, thereby reducing costs and promoting innovation.

As the Army completes the design of the MV-75 FLRAA, it is essential to verify the effectiveness of its Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) framework to address long-term operational needs. Identifying and mitigating potential architectural challenges early on helps prevent costly and time-consuming redesigns in the future. Ongoing collaboration with industry partners and thorough design evaluations are crucial to ensuring that the MV-75 FLRAA meets its demanding mission requirements.

The conventional, slow, and expensive upgrade cycle for military aircraft is no longer sustainable in the rapidly advancing technological environment of today. The Army's commitment to the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) ensures that the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) and future aircraft programs can adapt swiftly and cost-effectively to sustain battlefield superiority. MOSA provides the Army with unparalleled control over its platforms and technology, allowing it to manage upgrades and maintenance efforts independently of the original equipment manufacturer. This results in enhanced operational flexibility and cost efficiency throughout the aircraft's lifecycle.

The MV-75 FLRAA signifies a transformative approach in the acquisition and development of military aircraft. By adopting Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) principles from the beginning and embedding them within a digital-first design framework, the Army is not merely deploying a next-generation aircraft but setting a new benchmark for adaptability, sustainability, and long-term cost efficiency. This strategy guarantees that the MV-75 FLRAA can swiftly adapt to unforeseen challenges and incorporate advanced technologies, ensuring superior capabilities in an evolving threat environment for many years ahead.