Fri, Apr 16, 2010
Sikorsky Aircraft Developing Optionally Piloted Black Hawk
Demonstrator Helicopter
Sikorsky is collaborating with the U.S. Army to develop an
optionally piloted demonstrator Black Hawk helicopter, the company
announced Thursday from the Army Aviation Association of America
(AAAA) Annual Convention.
Sikorsky Innovations, Sikorsky Aircraft's technology
organization, is leading the development program. It plans to fly
the optionally piloted demonstrator aircraft this year, and is
targeting introducing the optionally piloted aircraft in 2015.
"This technology will provide commanders with manning options based
on the mission and tactical situation, and will significantly
reduce crew limitations while increasing Black Hawk helicopter
flight operations," said Chris Van Buiten Director of Sikorsky
Innovations.
The U.S. Army's total Black Hawk helicopter fleet exceeds 1,740
aircraft and has amassed six million flight hours. More than 3,000
Black Hawk helicopters are in use today, operating in 27 different
countries. Designed to stringent U.S. Military standards, the Black
Hawk helicopter has become the leader in multi-mission-type
aircraft. Among the mission configurations it serves are troop
transport, medical evacuation, attack, assault support and special
operations.
Black Hawk File Photo
Sikorsky Innovations is a networked group of Sikorsky employees
and industry teammates dedicated to demonstrating innovative
technology solutions to the toughest problems in vertical flight.
Sikorsky Innovations is pursuing a broad range of advanced
technologies, including X2 high-speed helicopter technology, aware
and adaptive aircraft systems and optionally piloted aircraft.
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