Sikorsky S-97 Raider completes first flight
The Sikorsky S-97 Raider prototype helicopter has completed its first flight, Sikorsky Aircraft announced on 22 May. The flight took place at Sikorsky's Development Flight Center, where the two-prototype Raider test programme is being conducted.
During the hour-long test, the aircraft was put through various manoeuvres to test its hover and low-speed capabilities.
With the first flight successfully completed, the helicopter will now undergo progressive flight tests to demonstrate its key performance parameters for future combat operations, such as armed reconnaissance, special operations, light attack and light assault.
Bob Leduc, president, Sikorsky, said: 'Sikorsky has a long tradition of pioneering new aviation technologies including the first practical helicopter. Today's first flight of the S-97 Raider represents the latest leap forward for Sikorsky, our customers, and the rotorcraft industry.
'The industry has demanded high performance and high value from the products that execute critical missions, and, today, the Raider helicopter has given us an exciting look at the future of vertical flight.'
The S-97 Raider programme was launched in 2010 to mature the X2 rotorcraft configuration and demonstrate a helicopter that meets the US army's special operations and armed reconnaissance needs.
Based on the X2 coaxial rotor design, the helicopter can be developed in a multi-mission configuration capable of carrying six troops and external weapons. It has coaxial counter-rotating main rotors and a pusher propeller, which are expected to give it cruise speeds up to 240 knots.
The second Raider helicopter prototype is on track to complete final assembly in 2015. A demonstration tour of the Raider helicopter is planned for 2016.
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