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2021-04-01

DEFIANT X Defies All Odds

Sikorsky and Boeing’s DEFIANT X is all set to compete for the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft contract, known as FLRAA, a top modernisation priority for the U.S Army.

DEFIANT X will reportedly be the fastest, most manoeuvrable and survivable assault helicopter in history. Combined with the team’s unsurpassed experience in mission systems, training and sustainment, it is being touted as a helicopter that will revolutionise the way the Army meets threats in 2035 and beyond. The Army is expected to release a request for proposal on FLRAA later this year, with a contract award expected in 2022.

DEFIANT X is a complete weapon system that builds on the handling qualities and transformational capabilities proven by the team’s technology demonstrator, SB>1 DEFIANT. With unmatched range and survivability, the helicopter will change the way the Army fights – enabling crews to fly low and fast through complex terrain, land quickly, deliver soldiers and equipment to the objective area (referred to as “the X”) and get out.

The helicopter flies twice as far and fast as the venerable Black Hawk helicopter it is designed to replace. Currently undergoing testing in a digital combat environment, the aircraft continues to prove itself the most survivable platform for mission requirements, according to a company statement.

“We are ready to deliver unparalleled capabilities backed by proven technologies that will truly transform the Army’s mission today, with room to grow and adapt to the missions of tomorrow,” said Andy Adams, Sikorsky vice president of Future Vertical Lift. “DEFIANT X not only includes the transformational aircraft – a manoeuvrable, survivable, lethal weapon system – it also leverages Sikorsky’s and Boeing’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.”

With its rigid coaxial rotor system and pusher propeller, DEFIANT X incorporates Sikorsky X2 Technology to operate at high speeds while maintaining low-speed handling qualities. This critical capability provides soldiers with increased manoeuvrability and survivability in high-threat air defence environments, allowing them to penetrate enemy defences while reducing exposure to enemy fire. Compared to SB>1 DEFIANT, the DEFIANT X airframe has enhancements to improve aerodynamics and reduce the thermal signature.

“DEFIANT X is purpose-built for a modernised Army that requires expanded reach, survivability and lethality,” said Steve Parker, vice president and general manager of Boeing Vertical Lift. “This weapon system will give soldiers unequalled technological advantage and connectivity over adversaries in a multi-domain battle space.”

Transformational Technology

With unmatched range and survivability, DEFIANT X will enable crews to fly low and fast through complex terrain, where Army aviators spend most of their time. DEFIANT X incorporates Sikorsky X2 Technology to operate at high speeds while maintaining low-speed handling qualities. This critical capability provides pilots with increased manoeuvrability and survivability in high-threat air defence environments, allowing them to penetrate enemy defences while reducing exposure to enemy fire. The helicopter’s compound co-axial rotor system and pusher prop allows for a high degree of manoeuvrability in and around the objective which is also directly linked to survivability.

X2’s speed, combined with next-generation flight control manoeuvrability, will dominate in future Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO) environments. The technology offers flight control design that will enable deceleration and acceleration that is transformational.

Furthermore, the X2 rotor design will ensure flight stability, safety and assurance in rigorous tactical operations. DEFIANT X will be equipped with a proven optionally piloted flight control system that will enable reliable and safer operations in low altitude, obstacle-rich environments or in degraded, uncertain conditions.

Together, Sikorsky and Boeing have built more than 90 per cent of the U.S. Army’s current military rotorcraft and have totalled more than 15 million flight hours. The team has produced iconic military rotorcraft including: Black Hawk, Chinook and Apache, and are in the best position to deliver interoperability with the enduring fleet. With proven worldwide supply chain partners, DEFIANT X will leverage an established, low-risk manufacturing capability that is augmented by a proven digital thread and advanced manufacturing processes in use today on the Black Hawk, Combat Rescue Helicopter and CH-53K. Sikorsky and Boeing’s joint resources and experience in JADO capabilities make the DEFIANT X team the best team to deliver a holistic weapons system to the Army.

The digital thread will run seamlessly throughout the DEFIANT X design, development, production and sustainment process. It will be part of a connected logistical network that provides maintenance free operating periods, improves interoperability and sustainment and lowers overall costs.

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