Envelope Expansion Continues For Sikorsky X2 Technology

Sikorsky's X2 Technology demonstrator achieved a speed of 181 knots in a test flight Monday at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, FL. 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 that 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 demonstrator today exceeded average helicopter speeds of a conventional helicopter, generally 160-170 knots," said Jim Kagdis, Program Manager, Sikorsky Advanced Programs. "The demonstrator is proving out the technologies very well, from the active vibration control system to the fly-by-wire controls. There are no show stoppers here so far, and now the program turns a corner, as this completes phase three of four. We are flying forward to the 250-knot cruise speed."

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

FMI: www.sikorsky.com