25-May-2010 Source: Sikorsky
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.â€
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.â€
Among the innovative technologies the X2 Technology demonstrator employs are:
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.