Envelope expansion continues as Sikorsky X2 Technology demonstrator flies faster than the average helicopter

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.'s X2 Technology demonstrator achieved a speed of 181 knots in a test flight today at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.

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.

"For potential customers, this milestone is exciting news and a solid signal that these technologies are true and executable, performing the way we expected they would," said Mark Miller, Sikorsky Vice President of Research & Engineering. "As the X2 Technology demonstrator prepares to write a new page in aviation history later this year, we will continue the conversation with our customers and look forward to mapping out future applications that will meet customer needs."

Among the innovative technologies the X2 Technology demonstrator employs are:

-- Fly-by-wire flight controls
-- Counter-rotating rigid rotor blades
-- Hub drag reduction
-- Active vibration control
-- Integrated auxiliary propulsion system

Source: Sikorsky