Lockheed Martin company Sikorsky and Boeing have selected Honeywell as the engine provider for the Defiant X helicopter.
The Defiant X advanced helicopter system is Sikorsky-Boeing’s entry for the US Army’s future long-range assault aircraft (FLRAA) competition.
The team has selected Honeywell’s HTS7500 turboshaft engine for the Defiant X.
In a statement, Honeywell said that the HTS7500 turboshaft is the latest and the most technologically advanced model in its family of military engines.
The engine comes with a modernised control system to ensure a secure flow of engine data, as well as enhanced operational capabilities.
Honeywell Aerospace Engines and Power Systems president Dave Marinick said: “This engine builds upon the battle-proven architecture of the T55, but the HTS7500 takes engine performance, reliability, and efficiency to a whole new level.
“The engine is structurally similar, which is great for maintainers in the field because they can use current tools and training.
“However, when it comes to performance, the HTS7500 is 42% more powerful than the T55-GA-714A, and has the lowest total weight compared to other engines in its horsepower class.”
The Defiant X is currently being tested in a digital combat environment. It is expected to replace the in-service Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
According to Sikorsky and Boeing, the Defiant X can fly twice as far and fast as the Black Hawk helicopter.
Sikorsky president Paul Lemmo said: “Defiant X is a transformational aircraft, and Honeywell is giving us a transformational engine to power it.
“Defiant X is optimised for operational effectiveness, sustainment, and interoperability with the enduring fleet, and will transform the Army.”
Last month, Defiant X’s technology demonstrator SB>1 DEFIANT concluded mission profile test flights.
The US Army initiated the FLRAA in 2019.
Sikorsky-Boeing submitted their proposal for the Defiant X in September 2021. The contract is expected to be awarded this year.
