31-Mar-2020 Source: Lockheed Martin
X2 Technology is at the core of Sikorsky’s S-97 RAIDER program. This suite of technology combines rigid, counter-rotating blades, fly-by-wire flight controls, and an integrated auxiliary propulsion system.
The S-97 RAIDER’s flight test program has demonstrated the requirements of the FARA program. Sikorsky is so confident in its RAIDER X offering because of the experience being built up with the S-97 RAIDER in flight. The technology that will be incorporated into RAIDER X is already being proven not on paper or in simulation, but on the flight field. This significantly reduces risk for the RAIDER X concept, which is already being built.
Sikorsky will continue to mature X2 Technology through the S-97 RAIDER flight test program.
“The power of X2 is game changing. It combines the best elements of low-speed helicopter performance with the cruise performance of an airplane,” said Sikorsky experimental test pilot Bill Fell, a retired Army pilot who has flown nearly every RAIDER test flight. “Every flight we take in our S-97 RAIDER today reduces risk and optimizes our FARA prototype, RAIDER X.”
Sikorsky is no stranger to the Army mission, with over 40 years of partnership supporting the needs of Army aviators. RAIDER X will give warfighting commanders day one battlefield advantage.