Sikorsky X2 Technology Demonstrator Wins Breakthrough Award from Popular Mechanics

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.'s X2 Technology demonstrator program has been recognized by Popular Mechanics magazine with a 2009 Breakthrough Innovator Award.

Members of the X2 Technology team attended a luncheon and awards ceremony hosted by Popular Mechanics Oct. 8 at the Hearst Tower in New York City.

"With the average top speed of conventional helicopters at approximately 160 or 170 knots, the X2 Technology(TM) demonstrator is on a path to set a new standard, so the recognition from Popular Mechanics is an exciting achievement for the team," said Jim Kagdis, Program Manager, Sikorsky Advanced Programs. "The full team has been dedicated to proving out the X2 Technology features, and we are pleased to be sharing the continuing success of the program with the world through this recognition."

Aiming to achieve the highest speed ever recorded for a helicopter, the X2 Technology demonstrator combines an integrated suite of technologies intended to advance the state-of-the-art, counter-rotating coaxial rotor helicopter. It is designed to demonstrate a helicopter can cruise comfortably at 250 knots while retaining such desirable attributes as excellent low speed handling, efficient hovering, and a seamless and simple transition to high speed.

The X2 Technology program, based at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center in Florida, to date has achieved a maximum test flight speed of 106 knots.

The X2 Technology program began in 2005 when Sikorsky first committed resources and full funding for the program's development.

"Sikorsky Aircraft was founded on the ingenuity and creativity of Igor Sikorsky, and the company has continued to value that pioneering spirit through the years," said Mark Miller, Sikorsky Vice President of Research & Engineering. "The X2 Technology program is a great example of how Sikorsky Aircraft continues to be a leader in innovation."

Among the technologies the X2 Technology demonstrator employs are:

- Fly-by-wire flight controls
- Counter-rotating rigid rotor blades
- Hub drag reduction
- Active vibration control
- Integrated auxiliary propulsion system