Sikorsky’s S-97 Raider Praised by Test Pilots for its Sports Car-Like Handling

In a groundbreaking test flight lasting just 20 minutes, the prototype S-97 Raider, developed by Sikorsky, defied conventional helicopter norms and left onlookers amazed at its unmatched capabilities. The flight, conducted at Sikorsky’s West Palm Beach, Florida facility, was the first public demonstration of the aircraft, witnessed by a group of journalists.

Originally designed for the U.S. Army’s Armed Aerial Scout program (which was later canceled in 2013), the S-97 Raider has found new purpose in the development of the Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) program. During the test flight, the aircraft displayed maneuvers that would leave even experienced helicopter pilots envious.

One of the most striking feats was the use of reverse pitch on the rear propeller to maintain a nose-down attitude during a steady hover – a maneuver previously unattainable by conventional helicopters. This capability is particularly useful for tasks such as targeting weapons or sensors toward the ground, search and rescue missions, and inspecting landing zones. The Raider showcased an agile performance, executing tight patterns and maneuvers with precision, thanks to its unique rigid, stacked rotors that counteract torque without requiring a tail rotor.

Test pilot Christiaan Corry described the Raider’s handling as comparable to a sports car, highlighting its aerodynamic prowess that allows it to execute maneuvers that were previously deemed impossible. The aircraft’s unconventional rotor system acts akin to a wing, enabling aerobatic maneuvers that have been beyond the reach of traditional helicopters.

The Raider’s rear propeller, in place of the conventional tail rotor, grants it not only remarkable agility but also the ability to achieve significantly higher speeds. Unlike traditional helicopters that face limitations as speeds increase, the Raider’s dual rotor design negates the stall tendency, facilitating high-speed forward flight. Its predecessor, the X2 experimental helicopter, reached an impressive 250 knots, while the Raider itself has achieved speeds of up to 207 knots.

During the test flight, the Raider effortlessly demonstrated its ability to dive onto a target using reverse pitch on the rear propeller, combining airplane-like speed and maneuverability. The aircraft’s adaptability also allows it to enter a “quiet mode” by disengaging the propeller and slowing down the main rotors, contributing to its stealth capabilities.

Despite its groundbreaking performance, challenges remain, including understanding maintenance costs, reliability, and the intricacies of the new configuration. The program had a setback in 2017 when a software issue caused a hard landing, but Sikorsky has since addressed the problem comprehensively. The confidence exhibited by the crew during the demonstration speaks to the aircraft’s progress.

In addition to its combat agility, the Raider’s level acceleration and deceleration could enhance passenger comfort during departures and approaches. The aircraft is being positioned for a variety of roles, including transporting passengers and VIPs. Ultimately, the S-97 Raider’s remarkable performance capabilities, agility, and speed make it a formidable asset for the U.S. Army’s future missions. With its unconventional design and unprecedented maneuvers, the Raider is poised to rewrite the rules of helicopter flight.

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