Posted on 10/02/2014 4:08:27 PM PDT by sukhoi-30mki
The S-97 Raider-Sikorsky new attack helicopter-is out and it is not only gorgeous. It's absolutely badass. It is based in the same technology as their X2 technology demonstrator, which broke the world helicopter speed record in 2010: 260 knots-that's 299.2mph vs the 172mph of conventional helicopters.
According to Sikorsky's Mike Miller, it "is an all-new helicopter, all-new configuration. We haven't seen something this new in 30 years." The Raider uses counter-rotating rotor blades with a push propeller on the tail. This unique combination allows it to pulverize all speed records.
Obviously, its weight is limited. This thing will not have the same kind of firepower as heavier helicopters, but it will be able to zip to any location and provide troop support faster than any other chopper.
The aircraft will not be operative in the US military just yet. In fact, only two Raiders are built. They will be tested during 2015.
It may not be as loud as you think.
Some of the more recent helicopters are a lot quieter. I was thinking about radar avoidance.
That's what Nap of the earth (NOE) flight is for. Helos are all loud. They have jet engines, and their blade tips can approach the speed of sound.
The initial reaction would be to think this helicopter’s blades would move faster than most, because of it’s top speed. That’s isn’t necessarily true is it.
I know that even the stealthy copters I’ve see are loud. I’m only referring to commercial helicopters though.
Thanks for your comments.
That NOE comment is a good comeback.
The upper rotor must have an an automatic engine control on it as the pusher prop gets the airframe to the higher speeds to keep it at the desired RPM range. Exceed Vne (Velocity never exceed) and the results can be quick and dramatic.
Thanks for the explanation.
The problem with the S-97 Raider is the price tag and expected maintenance. The price is to be 3 times higher than for UH-72. The first helicopter (BK 117) of this series was flown in 1979. How long did it take to get the V-22 Osprey operational? Btw. the S-97 has only one engine.
What does an Armed Aerial Scout (AAS) need?
Does an AAS really need much speed? What is the useful load of the S-97 Raider? 4,000 lbs like the UH-72 or just 2 pilots and 6 soldiers? Empty weight (OEW) of S-97 is 8,951 lb and MTOW is 11,023 lbs (http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=1074). The difference between OEW and MTOW is payload and fuel!
The S-97 is a badass asset to burn the military budget. The Raider will be another ARH-70.
this helicopter is so cool. We need to replace all our helicopters (combat and troop transport) with it and its cheap too
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.