Sikorsky performed a ceremonial rollout of the S-97 Raider helicopter at West Palm Beach on October 2. The aircraft is one of two prototypes that are based on the company’s X2 rigid coaxial rotor plus pusher-propeller technology demonstrator that broke the rotary-wing world speed record in 2010. Sikorsky is proposing the Raider as a replacement for the U.S. Army’s large fleet of OH-58D Kiowa Warriors armed aerial scouts, and for special operations.

“Raider marks the first unveiling of a new relevant rotorcraft configuration in 30 years,” said Mark Miller, Sikorsky vice president of research and engineering. “With the Raider program, Sikorsky has brought innovation to every aspect of the process, rethinking the way we design, build, test and support the product. We’ve kept a close eye on lowering development, production and support costs while increasing productivity and quality,” he added. The company noted that the program is “100-percent industry funded.” Sikorsky is providing 75 percent of the funding; the balance comes from 53 suppliers.

The cockpit of the single-engine Raider features side-by-side seating for two pilots, while the cabin can house up to six combat-equipped troops. According to Sikorsky, the Raider prototypes are expected to demonstrate significantly reduced turning radius and acoustic noise signature, while offering greater payload, endurance and altitude than other light military helicopters. The company believes that the new machine also has potential applications in the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, including assault, close air support and combat search-and-rescue.

After evaluating various alternatives for the AAS program, including an upgrade to the OH-58D, the Army has appeared to favor an all-new development such as the S-97.