Imagine a next-generation attack helicopter platform so advanced that it can reach speeds more than 220 knots (407 km/h), flying as high as 10,000 feet (3 km) in 95° of heat. The Sikorsky S-97™ Raider™ helicopter is poised to realize this vision and to revolutionize next-generation military aviation.
The S-97™ Raider™ aircraft multi-mission capabilities will meet both conventional U.S. Army and Special Operations future requirements in a variety of combat roles. Potential applications for US Air Force, US Navy and US Marine Corps are also being reviewed. Sikorsky Aircraft has invested in the X2 Technology™ to illustrate its commitment to developing future capabilities that are achievable and affordable. X2 Technology is scalable to a variety of military missions including assault, armed reconnaissance, close-air support, combat search and rescue, and unmanned applications.
Like the X2 Technology™ Demonstrator aircraft that unofficially broke the helicopter speed record on Sept. 15, 2010, the S-97™ Raider™ helicopter prototypes will feature twin coaxial counter-rotating main rotors (in place of one main rotor and a tail rotor) and a pusher propeller. For the armed reconnaissance mission, the S-97™ Raider™ helicopter will have space aft of the cockpit for armament and auxiliary fuel. In an assault configuration, the cabin will afford space to accommodate up to six troops.
In addition to flying at nearly twice the speed of a conventional helicopter, the S-97 Raider prototype aircraft will incorporate other key performance parameters critical to combat operations — increased maneuverability, greater endurance, and the ability to operate at high altitudes. Compared with other light military helicopters, the Raider prototypes are expected to significantly reduce turning radius and acoustic noise signature, while significantly increasing the aircraft’s payload, flight endurance and hot and high hover capability. Fan Funding : PayPal : [email protected]. Thanks a lot for your support! 🙂
