
Sikorsky’s S-97 Raider light attack prototype has exceeded 200 knots in level forward flight and is expected to continue ramping up to at least 220 knots, a speed unachievable in a traditional helicopter.Experimental Test Pilot Bill Fell said the Raider, which features dual coaxial rigid main rotors for lift and an aft propulsor, is flying regularly at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center in Palm Beach, Florida.“We’re getting into our stride and increasing the speed envelope with nearly every flight,” he…