S-97 RAIDER Helicopter powered on as Next-Gen Rotorcraft moves closer to first flight

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced, it has turned on electrical power for the first time to the S-97 RAIDER prototype helicopter, signaling successful installation of the avionics system and a major step toward completing the assembly of the new, light tactical rotorcraft featuring X2 Technology. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. The key milestone on the first of two aircraft planned to be built in the RAIDER program took place May 28, 2014, at Sikorsky’s Development Flight Center where the aircraft is being assembled. The successful powering on means that the cockpit multifunction displays and control display unit (CDU) are operational, as are the CDU controlled electronic circuit breakers. The aircraft will undergo electrical power and avionics Acceptance Test Procedures for the next several weeks, to complete the checkout of the remaining avionics, electrical, and flight control systems. The S-97 RAIDER helicopter is a revolutionary rotorcraft that will deliver X2 Technology in a new light tactical rotorcraft designed to outmatch conventional military helicopters in speed, maneuverability, and high altitude operations. The fly-by-wire controlled helicopter will feature counter-rotating rigid main rotor blades for lift and forward flight, and a pusher propeller for high speed acceleration and deceleration. The RAIDER is targeted to fly by the end of 2014. Sikorsky plans to demonstrate the aircraft’s capabilities to the U.S. military beginning in 2015.