Black exec Craig Arnold-led Eaton scores $1.3-billion contract to equip U.S. Army’s next-gen helicopter

Feyisayo Ajayi -

Eaton Corporation, an intelligent power management company, led by Black executive Craig Arnold, has secured a $1.3-billion contract with Bell Textron to provide critical hydraulic systems for the U.S. Army’s next-generation helicopter, the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA).

This landmark deal cements Eaton’s decade-long partnership with Bell on the FLRAA program. The company will supply the aircraft’s hydraulic power generation and conveyance components, oil swivels, hydraulic panels, and maintenance-free accumulators.

“We are thrilled to continue collaborating with Bell and the FLRAA team,” Nanda Kumar, president of Eaton’s Aerospace Group, said. “Our proven technologies will be instrumental in achieving the performance goals of this advanced aircraft.”

Eaton’s FLRAA contract bolsters role in $90 billion next-gen helicopter race

The award positions Eaton as a key player in the development of the FLRAA, a cutting-edge military helicopter program designed to replace the U.S. Army’s Black Hawk by 2030. This win builds upon Eaton’s extensive experience supporting the FLRAA program through system design, analysis, component development, and flight testing.

Analysts estimate the total market for this next-generation helicopter to be valued between $60 billion and $90 billion, positioning Bell Textron, the prime contractor, and Eaton to benefit for decades to come.

“This contract is a testament to Eaton’s leadership in aerospace hydraulic solutions,” the company stated. “Our commitment to innovation ensures we can deliver critical systems for the most important military aircraft.”

Craig Arnold’s leadership steers Eaton to new heights

Under the leadership of Arnold, who became CEO in June 2016, Eaton has achieved significant financial milestones. The company reported a revenue of $23.2 billion in fiscal year 2023, a 10.34-percent increase from the previous year.

Beyond his executive and governance roles, Arnold owns a minority 0.13-percent stake in Eaton Corporation — equivalent to 514,998 ordinary shares. This stake is worth more than $150 million — underscoring his vested commitment to the continued triumph of the intelligent power management company.