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Sikorsky X2 Helicopter

Posted on Oct 15, 2010 in 800HighTech, Geek News, Random, Video

Watch Sikorsky’s X2 helicopter break the world’s helicopter speed record…

Since its initial test flights back in 2008, the Sikorsky X-2 has been making some moves. Touted as one of the fastest helicopters in the world, the X-2 has recently been filmed breaking the world’s helicopter speed record by flying at 260 knots (299.2mph) – 127 mph faster than conventional helicopters.

Sikorsky X2 Helicopter

The Sikorsky X-2 is able to achieve such speeds thanks to its co-axial rotors – each equipped with 4 blades – and a tail-mounted variable-pitch propeller. The X-2 is powered by the LHTEC T800 engine, which was developed to support the canceled Sikorsky/Boeing RAH-66 Comanche.

Aside from obvious advancement in speed, the X-2 incorporates other new technologies including an ‘integrated Fly-by-Wire system that allows the engine/rotor/propulsor system to operate efficiently, with full control of rotor rpm throughout the flight envelope, high lift-to-drag rigid blades, low drag hub fairings, and Active Vibration Control.’ [Sikorsky]

Known Specifications

Crew: 2
Powerplant: 1× LHTEC T800-LHT-800 turboshaft
Propellers: 1 six-bladed pusher-type propeller
Rotor: 2 four-bladed co-axial
Maximum speed: 260 knots[16] (299 mph, 481 km/h)
Cruise speed: 250 knots (287.5 mph, 460 km/h)
Range: 702 nmi (808 mi, 1300 km)

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Tags: Aircraft, Aviation, Helicopters, News, Technology, Video

Source:

Unknown: Product Innovation, X2 TECHNOLOGY demonstrator. Sikorsky, 2010.
Unknown: Sikorsky X2 (Technology Demonstrator). Flugrevue, 02/03/2009.
Stephen Trimble: Sikorsky X2 breaks speed record. The DEW line, Flight Global, 10/08/2010.