Sikorsky-Boeing’s Future Vertical Lift helicopter takes maiden flight

On March 21, the Sikorsky-Boeing SB>1 DEFIANT helicopter achieved first flight at Sikorsky’s West Palm Beach, Fla., site. The aircraft, developed by Sikorsky and Boeing, has unique two-coaxial main rotors and a rear mounted pusher propulsor design. The helicopter is part of the Army’s Joint Multi-Role technology demonstration program which has the purpose to define requirements for a medium-lift Future Vertical Lift aircraft. The helicopter is participating in the Army’s Joint Multi-Role-Medium Technology Demonstrator program. Data from DEFIANT will help the Army develop requirements for new utility helicopters expected to enter service in the early 2030s. The Pentagon’s fiscal year 2020 budget request released earlier in March included approximately $790 million for Future Vertical Lift research and development, including $152 million for FVL advanced technology.