In the dynamic world of military aviation, innovation and technological prowess often dictate the pace at which new capabilities are developed and integrated into operational frameworks. For Sikorsky, a storied name in rotorcraft manufacturing, the latest bid for NATO’s Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) program marks a critical juncture. The firm is set to offer its advanced X2 coaxial compound, high-speed helicopter design for the NGRC program—a pivotal opportunity for the X2 technology to secure a major international contract.
“We’re also about to submit a proposal for the NATO NGRC. They have a study contract now for aircraft concepts,” stated Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo, signaling the company’s intent to compete in the NATO-led initiative. The bid comes at a time when Sikorsky is keen on a reversal of fortunes after its Defiant X, in collaboration with Boeing, was overshadowed by Bell’s tilt-rotor design in the US Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft competition in late 2022. Furthermore, the cancellation of the Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft program earlier this year has left Sikorsky’s Raider X helicopter without immediate prospects within the US military.
Undeterred, Sikorsky has continued testing and flying the Raider X for engineering purposes from its facilities in Florida, as the company sets its sight on international collaboration with NATO. The move illustrates a strategic pivot that could see Sikorsky’s significant investment in X2 technology bear fruit on the global stage.
Lockheed Martin, Sikorsky’s parent company, has already been awarded a NGRC concept study contract by NATO, valued at up to €2 million. This investment is a harbinger for potential further cooperation and signifies NATO’s interest in the high-speed, agile capabilities promised by Sikorsky’s X2 design.
Competition in the NGRC program, however, is robust. Notably, Bell and Italy’s Leonardo have shown interest in a concept study contract, banking on a joint tiltrotor design, while Europe’s Airbus has eyes on pitching its Racer helicopter. Sikorsky is not only contending with international rivals but also working to cement relations with Italian defense officials for a high-speed helicopter requirement for the Italian Army.
Sikorsky’s foray into the NGRC competition is further supported by recent developments in its existing prototypes. The powered-up Raider X, although not slated for flight, has allowed for crucial ground testing of the GE Aerospace T901 Improved Turbine Engine—a component that could become integral to Sikorsky UH-60 and Boeing AH-64 fleets. “We’re working on tasks with the FARA money that make sense for army aviation,” remarked Lemmo.
The meticulous ground testing of the Raider X and the data gathered from the T901 engines provide Sikorsky with valuable insights. While the Raider X may never experience the lift-off within the US military program, the technology underpinning it continues to evolve and demonstrate its potential applicability in various modernization efforts. Indeed, the T901 engine’s integration into the Black Hawk is seen as “foundational for Black Hawk modernisation,” with a promise of enhanced power, range, efficiency, and lift.
Relevant articles:
– Sikorsky prepares X2 offer for NATO’s next generation rotorcraft competition, Breaking Defense, 04/28/2024
– Sikorsky powers up Raider X prototype but has no plans to fly, Flightglobal, Thu, 25 Apr 2024 19:35:40 GMT