MANASSAS, Va., April 5 (UPI) -- Airframes for the prototype S-97 scout and attack helicopter will be built and assembled in Mississippi by Virginia's Aurora Flight Sciences.
The aircraft, being built by Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., feature twin coaxial counter-rotating main rotors and a pusher propeller. It will fly at nearly twice the speed of a conventional helicopter and will incorporate other key performance parameters -- increased maneuverability, greater endurance, reduced acoustic noise signature and the ability to operate at high altitudes -- critical to combat operations.
"We are pleased to join Sikorsky's team to develop the S-97 Raider prototype," said John Langford, Aurora's president and chief executive officer. "Our demonstrated success in rapid prototyping and our experience in transitioning prototype programs into production were key factors in Sikorsky's decision to select Aurora for this high-priority development program."
Aurora said its design and manufacturing role will take place over the next several years. Applying Sikorsky structural design methodologies, Aurora engineers will design the airframe to meet weight, strength and stiffness criteria.
Aurora Flight Sciences designs and builds advanced aerospace vehicles and related technology components for commercial and military applications.
It's been reported that the S-97 Raider is intended as a possible replacement for the U.S. Army's OH-58D Kiowa helicopter.
