Avion Manufacturing Inc. (Avion), a global leader in helicopter rotor blade balancing systems, announces two major milestones in support of U.S. Army and allied aviation operations: the delivery of its 500th rotor balancing system, and the launch of its next-generation Universal Static Balance Fixture (USBF-III).

For over 30 years, Avion has been a trusted cornerstone in rotorcraft maintenance, delivering cutting-edge balancing solutions for more than 30 main rotor blade types. The company’s Universal Static Balance Fixture (USBF) ensures precise balancing of main rotor blades, while its Virtual Master Blade (VMB) system streamlines tail rotor balancing—reducing downtime and enhancing mission readiness across global fleets.

The newly launched USBF-III introduces significant advancements tailored for military maintenance, including:

• Intuitive, user-friendly interface for rapid and accurate balancing.
• Modular, interchangeable components for simplified field maintenance.
• Enhanced durability to withstand extreme operational environments.
• Expanded compatibility with a wider range of rotor blades.

“The USBF-III sets a new standard for rotor blade maintenance,” said Jarrod Bax, Engineering Manager for Avion. “By combining proven technology with modern design enhancements, we’re empowering U.S. Army crews to achieve faster blade evaluations and maintain peak operational readiness.”

Avion will showcase the USBF-III at the Army Aviation Association of America’s Mission Solutions Summit in Nashville, Tennessee, May 14–16, 2025. Military personnel are invited to visit Booth #1921 to explore the system’s capabilities firsthand.

Proven Performance and a Growing Global Presence

Avion’s rotor balancing systems are renowned for their unmatched reliability and efficiency. Key benefits include:

• Reducing dynamic balancing time on aircraft.
• Allowing replacement of individual blades instead of full sets—saving significant time and costs.
• Improving fleet readiness with minimal downtime.

Each Avion balance fixture is delivered as a fully integrated system, featuring:

• A precision-calibrated platform with load cells.
• A high-speed processing unit using Avion’s proprietary balancing software.
• An intuitive touchscreen monitor for seamless data entry and analysis.
• Built-in thermal printing for real-time reporting.
• On-site setup and training for military maintenance personnel as needed.

The systems are portable and robust, requiring only a single operator, with rapid transition capabilities between different blade types.

Streamlined Procurement for Military Agencies

In 2024, Avion secured a General Services Administration (GSA) contract (47QSMS24D0017), simplifying procurement for U.S. Army units and other government agencies. This contract, available through GSA Advantage, ensures streamlined acquisition and supports efficient military budgeting and operational planning.

Global Reach and Trusted Military Partnerships

Avion’s technologies support military aviation programs worldwide. In addition to the U.S. Army—Avion’s largest customer—its balancing systems are relied upon by allied forces in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Turkey, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Australia, Oman, Colombia, and more.

“As a proud American aerospace engineering company, we take immense pride in supporting the U.S. Army’s helicopter programs with innovative, reliable solutions,” said Joe Wilson, President of Avion and a career aerospace engineer. “Our commitment to quality and mission success drives every system we deliver.”

Visit Avion/AvTask at Booth #1921 during the Army Aviation Association of America’s Mission Solutions Summit in Nashville, Tennessee, May 14–16, 2025.