BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.C.R. 4
87R7096 BHH-D	By: Powell
	Veteran Affairs & Border Security
	4/15/2021
	As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

The increasing military capabilities of other nations pose a growing threat to the United States of America, and in response, the United States military is undertaking critical modernization efforts across all branches. The United States Army has adopted a modernization plan encompassing six mutually supporting priorities, among them the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) program. The FVL initiative is a research and development effort to provide the next generation of rotorcraft technology to the armed forces, improving maneuverability, range, speed, payload, survivability, and reliability while reducing logistical footprint.

Key components of FVL include the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) and Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA). FARA is designed to defeat defensive layers by providing much-needed aerial reconnaissance capabilities, while FLRAA will exploit opened areas to achieve air assault, air medical, and medium utility missions. FVL will enable the Army National Guard, including the Texas National Guard, to expand its mission as an operational strategic reserve.

Army Futures Command, headquartered in Austin, focuses on modernization and speeding up the acquisition of platforms and technology, including FVL. Texas is both a center of the nation's aerospace and aviation industry and home to active military bases representing all branches of the military. Moreover, numerous defense contractors and suppliers located in the Lone Star State play a role in strengthening military readiness. FVL is vital to the military's ability to compete in the ever-evolving threat environment, and this important program will also promote continued growth and innovation in the aerospace and defense sectors in Texas and the nation.

RESOLVED

That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby expresses its support for the Future Vertical Lift program (FVL), including the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) and Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA), as part of United States Army modernization.

That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby expresses support for full funding of the United States Army's FVL, including FLRAA and FARA.

That the Texas secretary of state forward official copies of this resolution to the members of the Texas delegation to Congress as an expression of the sentiment of the Texas Legislature.