FTL Labs developed and evaluated multiple Vest Integrated Load Assist (VILA) concepts designed to reduce spinal loading and fatigue for Navy helicopter pilots. These concepts aim to lessen the effective weight of heavy flight vests carrying armor and personal survival equipment. FTL assessed each concept using a comprehensive trade space analysis of performance metrics and conducted laboratory tests with an instrumented mannequin and a helicopter seat mockup. The two best-performing designs, VC6.3 (powered) and VC7 (passive), showed a remarkable performance reducing the load from flight vests and personal survival equipment, effectively leaving flight vest shoulder straps loose, lifting all weight off the shoulders. Analytical modeling guided design improvements, resulting in concepts that promise significant reductions in pilot fatigue and spinal loading.