The X2 technology is scalable to a variety of military missions including assault, armed reconnaissance, close-air support, combat search and rescue, and unmanned applications. This capability and the multi-role configuration of the S-97, makes it ideal to fulfil future military programmes by army, navy, marines, special forces worldwide, including India.

Sikorsky has a long history of innovation, starting with the invention of world’s first practical helicopter. In keeping with its tradition, Sikorsky set out to accomplish a key performance objective in the next-generation of helicopters: a high cruise speed without compromising vertical take-off capability, as historically, vertical flight has required a compromise between hover performance and forward speed.

To overcome this challenge, Sikorsky has developed the X2 technology which combines a counter-rotating coaxial rotor, in place of one main rotor and a tail rotor, with a suite of integrated technologies. The X2 technology includes innovations such as an integrated fly-by-wire system that allows the engine/rotor/propulsion system to operate efficiently, with full control of rotor rpm throughout the flight envelope; high lift-to-drag counter-rotating rigid rotor blades; low drag hub fairings, active vibration control and an integrated auxiliary propulsion system.

The X2 technology allows a helicopter to cruise comfortably at 250 knots (460 kmph) while retaining such desirable attributes as excellent low speed handling, efficient hovering, and a seamless and simple transition to high speed. Current generation of helicopters have maximum speeds of 135/150 knots (248/277 kmph).

The Sikorsky Aircraft X2 technology demonstrator team has been named the winner of the 2010 Robert J. Collier Trophy, which is awarded annually to recognise the greatest achievements in aeronautics or astronautics in USA. The X2 technology design is scalable for a variety of rotorcraft sizes and applications and opens up new possibilities for the industry.

The helicopter being developed on this platform is the S-97 Raider. The S-97 Raider affords low single pilot work load, low vibration and low acoustic signature, in addition to the enhanced cruise speed of 250 knots.

The S-97 Raider helicopter prototypes will feature twin coaxial counter-rotating main rotors and a pusher propeller. In addition to flying at nearly twice the speed of a conventional helicopter, the S-97 Raider prototype aircraft will incorporate other key performance parameters critical to combat operations— increased manoeuvrability, greater endurance and the ability to operate at high altitudes. Compared with other light military helicopters, the S-97 Raider prototypes would significantly reduce turning radius, while appreciably increasing the aircraft’s payload, flight endurance and hot and high hover capability.

Furthermore, the X2 technology is scalable to a variety of military missions including assault, armed reconnaissance, close-air support, combat search and rescue, and unmanned applications. This capability and the multi-role configuration of the S-97, makes it ideal to fulfil future military programmes by army, navy, marines, special forces worldwide, including India.

Sikorsky is investing into other futuristic requirements as well, like optionally piloted helicopter with one pilot or no pilot and the X2 technology, and believes that the speed bar can possibly go up to 300 knots (550 kmph).