Second S-97 Raider Helicopter Prototype

 

Sikorsky Aircraft strat assembly the second S-97 Raider Reconnaissance Helicopter.

 

 

     Sikorsky Aircraft announced the strat of final assembly of the second S-97 Raider helicopter at the company’s Development Flight Center. The Raider is a rigid coaxial rotor prototype aircraft ideally suited for armed reconnaissance and a spectrum of special operations missions.

     Sikorsky launched the S-97 Raider program in October 2010 with the objective of maturing the X2 rotorcraft design. The second prototype will serve as a demonstrator aircraft, offering key customers an opportunity to experience the capabilities of X2 Technology first hand. Sikorsky is on track to complete final assembly and test fights of the second Raider prototype in 2015, followed by demonstration flights beginning in 2016.

     The S-97 Raider is capable of carrying six troops and external weapons. The coaxial counter-rotating main rotors and pusher propeller provide cruise speeds up to 410 km/h (220 konts), more than double the speed of conventional helicopters. Sikorsky will offer the Raider aircraft as a replacement for the U.S. Army’s OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopter fleet.