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Sikorsky-Boeing Team Reveals DEFIANT X For FLRAA

DEFIANT X lift formation illustration [©Sikorsky-Boeing]

DEFIANT X ~ Sikorsky-Boeing Team reveals advanced assault helicopter designed to revolutionise US Army capabilities.

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Press Release, West Palm Beach, 25 January 2021: Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company, and Boeing today released details of its advanced helicopter for the US Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft competition, known as FLRAA. The aircraft, named DEFIANT X, will be the fastest, most manoeuvrable and most survivable assault helicopter in history. Combined with the team’s unsurpassed experience in mission systems, training and stainment, it will revolutionise the way the Army meets threats in 2035 and beyond.

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, DEFIANT X will 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. DEFIANT X 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.

“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, mission systems and revolutionary stainment solution, but also leverages Sikorsky’s and Boeing’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.”

With its rigid coaxial rotor system and pher propeller, DEFIANT X incorporates Sikorsky X2 Technolog 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.

DEFIANT X illustration [©Sikorsky-Boeing]

“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.”

DEFIANT X will revolutionise the Army’s air assault capability with limited changes in tactics, techniques, procedures, training and infrastructure while maintaining the Black Hawk helicopter footprint and tight formation capability flown today.

The Army is expected to release a request for proposal on FLRAA later this year, with a contract award expected in 2022.

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