Sikorsky S-97 Raider exceeds 200 knots

The Sikorsky S-97 Raider light tactical helicopter prototype is currently moving through its flight test schedule, recently exceeding 200 knots at the Sikorsky Development Flight Centre. The Raider, developed by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is based on the company’s X2 Technology demonstrator, enabling speeds twice that of conventional helicopters. Sikorsky continues to demonstrate the application of its X2 Technology as the company prepares its proposal for the US Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) competition as part of the Army’s efforts to revolutionide its aircraft fleet as part of what is known as the Future Vertical Lift programme.