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July 27, 2010 -
Sikorsky Aircraft’s X2 Technology demonstrator on Monday unofficially
broke the speed record for rotorcraft, achieving a maximum speed of 225
knots in a one-hour test flight at the
X2 Technology
demonstrator Chief Pilot Kevin Bredenbeck executed the successful
record-breaking test flight. The previous record for a 3,500 kg class of
rotorcraft – 216 knots – was set by a Westland Lynx in the mid-1980’s. “The X2 Technology demonstrator’s latest flight is continuing to push the speed envelope, successfully flying approximately 50 knots faster than a traditional helicopter,” said Jim Kagdis, Program Manager, Advanced Programs. |
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“Vibration levels
and aircraft performance have continued to meet or exceed our
expectations, so we are pleased to report that all systems are ‘go’ in
our mission to achieve a 250-knot cruise speed later this year.”
In the
demonstrator’s previous flight, a new tail configuration was
incorporated to decrease pilot workload as the aircraft speed is
increased, improving the overall aircraft handling qualities.
Mark Miller,
Sikorsky Vice President of Research & Engineering, said, “The X2
Technology program is one of our Sikorsky Innovations initiatives to
develop and mature the technologies, products and processes that will
redefine the future of vertical flight. With each successful test
flight, the X2 Technology demonstrator is carrying this forward and
writing a new page in aviation history.”
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. |
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