Leveraging Sikorsky and Boeing’s “unsurpassed experience” in military mission systems, DEFIANT X will be the fastest, most maneuverable and most survivable assault helicopter in history.
Lockheed Martin-owned Sikorsky And Boeing unveiled Monday its latest replacement for the U.S. Army Black Hawk® – a project named DEFIANT X, which the company plans to submit for the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft competition, known as FLRAA.
The aircraft builds on the team’s coaxial technology demonstrator, SB>1 DEFIANT®, and will enable crews to maneuver through complex terrain at relative ease, land quickly, and rapidly taxi other Army constituents in combat.
Sikorsky and Boeing have equipped the DEFIANT X with improved aerodynamics and reduced thermal signature, making the new aircraft superior to the SB>1 DEFIANT.
Compared to the Black Hawk® helicopter, Defiant X will fly twice as far.
Commenting on the refinement, vice president of Future Vertical Lift Andy Adams said: “We are ready to deliver unparalleled capabilities by proven technologies that will truly transform the Army’s mission today, with room to grow and adapt to the mission of tomorrow.”
“DEFIANT X not only includes the transformational aircraft – a maneuverable survivable, lethal weapon system – it also leverages Sikorsky’s and Boeing’s advanced manufacturing capabilities,” continued Adams.
With the airframe and landing gear enhancements, DEFIANT X is set to revolutionize the Army’s air assault capability, the companies claimed.
“DEFIANT X is purpose built for a modernized 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 unequaled technological advantage and connectivity over adversaries in a multi-domain battle space.”
