Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company (NYSE: LMT), has successfully validated advanced control systems for its innovative “rotor blown wing” uncrewed aerial system (UAS), demonstrating seamless transitions between helicopter and airplane flight modes. The battery-powered, twin prop-rotor prototype, weighing 115 pounds (52 kg), has proven its stability and maneuverability across all flight phases, showcasing the potential for scaling the design to larger hybrid-electric models.
Breakthrough in VTOL Innovation
“Combining helicopter and airplane capabilities into a flying wing underscores Sikorsky’s commitment to pioneering next-generation VTOL UAS aircraft that surpass traditional helicopters in speed and range,” said Rich Benton, Sikorsky Vice President and General Manager.
Led by Sikorsky Innovations, the company’s rapid prototyping team, the rotor blown wing project has advanced from preliminary design to full flight testing within a year. A major milestone was reached in January 2025 when the 10.3-foot wingspan prototype successfully completed over 40 take-offs and landings, including 30 complex transitions between hover and high-speed cruise flight. The aircraft achieved a top speed of 86 knots in horizontal flight. Simultaneous wind tunnel testing on a full-scale model validated the new control laws, aligning real-world and experimental data.
“Our rotor blown wing has demonstrated the necessary control and handling qualities for seamless transition between hover and wing-borne flight,” said Sikorsky Innovations Director Igor Cherepinsky. “This technology enables future large-scale models to operate from ship decks and unprepared terrain.”
Future Applications and Expanding Capabilities
Sikorsky envisions a range of applications for rotor blown wing UAS, including search and rescue, firefighting, humanitarian missions, and infrastructure surveillance. Larger variants could support long-range intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and crewed-uncrewed teaming missions.
All rotor blown wing models will integrate Sikorsky’s MATRIX™ flight autonomy system for autonomous navigation. The rotor blown wing is part of a broader family of VTOL UAS and single main rotor aircraft under development by Sikorsky.
Additionally, the company is working on a 1.2-megawatt hybrid-electric demonstrator (HEX), featuring a tilt-wing design for long-range passenger and cargo transport. Sikorsky expects to demonstrate the HEX’s hover capability by 2027, further advancing its leadership in next-generation aviation technology.
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