The United States Army is set to display the newest Army helicopter at the Association of the United States Army exhibition Oct. 12, and people will be able to get a full view of America’s newest war machine. The S-97 Raider, built by Sikorsky, is a multi-role attack helicopter, according to UPI.
The S-97 Raider is unique for several reasons, including the fact that it has been developed with both vertical flight and forward speed capabilities. Building helicopters usually demands that the manufacturer choose between vertical flight or forward speed capabilities, but Sikorsky managed to find a way to include both. In 2010, a prototype of the helicopter unofficially broke the speed record for a helicopter.
WATCH:
Sikorsky Director of Advanced Military Programs Steve Engebretson has said that the display at the AUSA will be the first time a helicopter with this technology has ever been officially displayed saying, “The aircraft has exceeded our expectations in early flight testing, affirming the technology and its potential for executing the future missions of armed reconnaissance, special operations, and light attack or assault. For our customers who haven’t seen the aircraft in person yet, we think it will help to give them a hands-on experience with the RAIDER aircraft, bringing them closer to envisioning the possibilities that are becoming reality.” (RELATED: US Military Displays New Vehicle And It’s Absolutely Amazing)
The S-97 Raider can carry up to six troops at a time while being armed with unspecified weapons.