The S-97 is a production-ready, “scaled-up version of the X2 demonstrator.”
The first of two Sikorsky S-97 Raider helicopter prototypes is taking form at the company’s rapid prototyping facility in West Palm Beach, Fla. Seen here in February, the first fuselage has since had its landing gear and rear doors installed. While primarily being developed for the U.S. Army’s armed aerial scout program, Sikorsky said it plans to produce a civil version of the S-97 that could be used for offshore oil and VIP transport, as well as search and rescue operations. (Photo: Sikorsky Aircraft)
