Kohler joined Bell in June 2004, as director of Intermediate and Medium Programs, and he also served as the Light Helicopter Development Program director.

Commenting on the promotion Mike Blake, Executive Vice President, Commercial Programs said, "With Bell's commercial aircraft output on the rise, over 30% since 2005, Barry's leadership in this newly created position will help move Bell's current and future products to even higher performance levels and further support our commitment to the commercial helicopter market. I look forward to the innovation and energy Barry will bring to this position."

Before joining Bell, Barry's experience includes:

• Leading both rotary-wing and military fixed wing fly-by-wire flight control programs at BAE Systems
• Product leader for Honeywell's air turbine starter business
• Product leader for Honeywell's missile control system business
• Over 15 years experience in propulsion and control system development at Honeywell and legacy Allied Signal businesses

Barry has a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from General Motors Institute.

Bell Helicopter is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tilt rotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries.

Textron Inc. is an $11 billion multi-industry company operating in 32 countries with approximately 40,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com.