Sikorsky X2 family

[yasotay]

Sikorsky has truly gone “all in” with this technology. Trying to get the European market will require them to team with Airbus or Leonardo with appropriate workshare to have a realistic opportunity. Given the Italian AF Commanders recent comments I expect that negotiations have been ongoing with Leonardo if they are publicly talking of the effort. Likely prior to the FLRAA decision.

Sikorsky sees strong interest in X2-based ‘International Twin’

Sikorsky is pitching its X2 high-speed helicopter technology to customers outside the USA and has spun out a conceptual multirole rotorcraft it now calls the 'International Twin'.

www.flightglobal.com

Italian army sees the need for speed in future rotorcraft requirements

The Italian army sees a future need for a next-generation rotorcraft to augment the capabilities of its conventional helicopter fleet, according to the service's aviation chief.

www.flightglobal.com

 

[yasotay]

https://aviationweek.com/defense-sp...-leonardo-study-x2-italian-high-speed-mission

Since Leonardo already a tilt rotor competitor to the Bell V-280'esque FLRAA, it makes sense that they would want to explore other high-speed rotorcraft options to compete with Airbus for the non-tilt rotor mission sets.

 

[H_K]

Thanks @yasotay. I’m somewhat surprised as this will give Leonardo access to tons of confidential competitive info on the strengths and weaknesses of X2 technology. Which it can then use to sell more tilt rotors and defend/grow its market position.

Sounds a little desperate of Sikorsky honestly. Win win for Leonardo.