Leaders and technical experts from Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) and Novacoast Federal visited the Mississippi Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot (AVCRAD) in Gulfport, MS last week. 

The NIAR and Novacoast teams are collaborating on research through the FirePoint Innovation Center at Wichita State.  The research is focused on extending the use of digital engineering tools and processes into the maintenance domain.  The group toured the main hangar and several back shops at the facility, while working closely with the soldiers and artisans to capture data that will be used to augment a proof-of-concept that is set for release later this year.

“We are excited to work with MS-AVCRAD to develop and demonstrate technologies that will make a positive impact on the artisans and soldiers that maintain Army Aviation fleets,” said Pierre Harter, WSU associate vice president of research operations and NIAR director of R&D. “These technologies aim to help them perform tasks more efficiently and effectively, while also preparing them for upcoming future vertical lift (FVL) sustainment processes and digital tools.”

“We are excited to apply our technical expertise to help bring this important initiative to life,” said Novacoast CEO Paul Anderson. “The visit helped us refine the application’s design based on the input and guidance of the maintainers. We look forward to the hands-on testing later this year for additional feedback.”

Cindy Ponder, former senior sustainment advisor for FVL, said, “Partnering with Wichita State and the Organic Industrial Base allows FVL to focus on a ‘Bridging Strategy’ for sustainment between the enduring fleet and future fleet.”