Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66
Military aviation
Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66

Helicopter Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66

 

 

How well it all started. 1996 the first test flight of the Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66 Comanche - American multipurpose reconnaissance strike helicopter. Firstborn ambitious rearmament program of the US Army helicopter fleet.

While in the US Army operated AH-64 Apach, killer tanks.

 

Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66 Comanche photos

Helicopter Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66

The effect of its use has been shown in many wars and conflicts. But in analyzing the effectiveness of its fight against different targets, it was concluded - in addition, that would destroy the target, it is necessary to find mention.

Based on this and a number of other findings of the military concluded that the creation of a new aircraft, with a large bias in intelligence activities.

Helicopter Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66 34

As a result, the military announced a competition for the creation of an aircraft designed for reconnaissance activities and, if necessary, its destruction. Produced by the machine must be unobtrusive in all ranges of detection of its air defenses. Speed ​​to exceed 180 km / h, than any other gunship. The weight was supposed to be within 3800 kg.

Applications for participation in the tender filed many companies that somehow were related to the pilot. But in the finals group of experts gathered by «Boeing» and «Sikorsky». The result of their work was a test flight in 1996 year.

Tasks of the designers have been met. A compact helicopter with appropriate weapons. In order to enhance its stealth, and special materials used, shape of the fuselage were designed in full compliance with the requirements of technology "Stealth". Armament was hidden in the fuselage.

 

It was planned that the «RAH-66 Comanche», will be available in three types: percussion, intelligence and multi-purpose.

The order volume for the aviation industry was estimated 5000 machines.

 

Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66 Comanche characteristics

Helicopter Boeing / Sikorsky RAH-66 TTX

But the development of progress does not stand still. Along with the development of this truly beautiful and powerful helicopter came and development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). After elementary economic calculations (the price of the helicopter, the cost of pilot training, maintenance and so forth.), It was concluded, which killed «RAH-66 Comanche» efficiency of the UAV was, well, if not by orders of magnitude, it is much higher. So «RAH-66 Comanche» was the victim of unmanned aircraft.

See more helicopters

Avia.pros

Blog and articles

upstairs