In a bid to redefine the future of flight, Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has announced its plans to develop, test and fly a hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing demonstrator (HEX / VTOL) with a tilt-wing configuration.
This innovative design marks the first in a series of large, next-generation VTOL aircraft that are expected to redefine the dynamics of traditional aircraft with varying degrees of electrification. They will be equipped with an advanced autonomy system for optionally piloted flights, a feature that will significantly enhance both flight safety and operational efficiency. More information can be found here.
“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 program 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.”
The upcoming HEX program will prioritize improved features such as a range of over 500 nautical miles at high speed, a reduction in mechanical systems to simplify the aircraft, and lower maintenance costs. The initiative is being spearheaded by Sikorsky Innovations, the company's prototyping group, in collaboration with GE Aerospace.
The duo is finalizing designs to establish a testbed for a 600KW electric motor-driven hybrid-electric power system. This testbed is a crucial first step in analyzing the hover performance of the subsequent HEX demonstrator — a 9,000-pound maximum gross weight aircraft equipped with a 1.2MW-class turbogenerator and related power electronics.
The evolution of hybrid aircraft has been a significant aspect of aviation development in recent years. Sikorsky's project aims to integrate these components and demonstrate the growing maturity of their proprietary MATRIX™ autonomy suite as well as the potential for maintenance-free systems.
Formed in 2010, Sikorsky Innovations has been committed to overcoming technological barriers to rotary wing speed, autonomy, and intelligence. Its new focus on electrification and automation signals a key shift in the company's goal, pointing towards a more sustainable and efficient future in aviation. More about Sikorsky Innovations and their breakthroughs can be found here.
About Lockheed Martin, it is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Their mission solutions and 21st Century Security vision aim to accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure their clients remain ready for any challenge. For more on Lockheed Martin, visit Lockheedmartin.com.
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