Sikorsky is looking at both tilt wings and conventional helicopters for its Hex programme. Image: Sikorsky
Sikorsky has unveiled its plan to build, test and fly a hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing demonstrator (HEX/VTOL) with a tilt-wing configuration. The design is the first in a series of large, next-generation VTOL aircraft – ranging from more traditional helicopters to winged configurations – which will feature varying degrees of electrification and an advanced autonomy system for optionally piloted flight.
Sikorsky is planning a three-pronged attack for its HEX/VTOL programme. Image: Sikorsky
“We never stop innovating at Sikorsky,” said Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo. “Autonomy and electrification will bring transformational change to flight safety and operational efficiency of large VTOL aircraft. Our HEX demonstrator programme will provide valuable insights as we look to a future family of aircraft built to the scale and preferred configurations relevant to commercial and military customers.”
Remains bullish on S-92 demand and crisis rectification
Meanwhile, at the same briefing, the company said that it remains confident of resuming larger scale production of the S-92 in the “near future”, with its VP Global of Commercial and Military Systems, Leon Silva, assuring the briefing that demand for the S-92A+ variant remains strong with orders from energy companies and HoS operators in the pipeline. Although the company has not said where it plans to build a new S-92 production facility, Silva did say that the company did not see the lack of production site as an issue.
