Black Hawk is more than just an early 2000s film with Joshua Hartnett; it is actually the name of the military’s hallmark Long-Range Assault Aircraft. Designed to get in and out of tight spots in enemy terrain without detection, the Black Hawk has been a key offensive and defensive force for the military.
However, the military is now taking bids from two competitors who aim to win the Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft competition.
The GOAT: Black Hawk
The Black Hawk is a versatile helicopter designed as both a tactical transportation vehicle and an air rescue aircraft. It can also be used for electronic warfare and features a single rotor and twin-turboshaft engine. The Black Hawk has been a landmark US military aircraft since its creation in 1972 and served as the replacement for the UH-1 Iroquois helicopter. The fact that it has remained one of the most utilized pieces of military aircraft in modern history for the past five decades is a testament to its strong design and capabilities.
The Contenders: V-280 Valor Vs. Defiant
Two companies are vying to create the next military icon, Sikorsky (who is teamed up with Boeing) and Bell. Sikorsky is the creator of the Black Hawk, which means they clearly have the upper hand in the category. In addition, Sikorsky and Boeing are responsible for producing and crafting over 90% of the US rotorcraft. However, Bell has a significantly impressive product in the V-280 Valor that certainly demands attention and could sneak in to win the competition as the Underdog. Let’s take a closer look.
The V-280 Valor, Otherwise Known as a Tiltrotor
The V-280 Valor is revolutionary for its unique rotors set at the aircraft’s wings to help adjust the helicopter’s orientation. The addition of rotors allows the aircraft to function as a helicopter and land quickly and swiftly in tight spaces but cruise swiftly through the air like a plane while jetting off at an impressive 350 mph through the air.
Level & Dynamic, the Futuristic SB>1 Defiant
The defining feature of the Defiant outside of its amazing aerodynamic body that pushes the envelope of what a helicopter should look like is its two top rotors. The rotors are designed to spin in opposite directions, which allows it to the bank quickly and descend just as fast without stalling. While it only hits speeds of up to 272 miles compared to the V-280 Valor, the counter-rotation of the rotors adds lift to the helicopter making the tail rotor unnecessary. In its place, the Defiant features a propeller that can help it maintain a perfect level ascent or descent while quickly slowing or speeding up.
It is hard to tell which aircraft will ultimately win the military bid. Still, either way, it is a safe bet the helicopter will be a marvel of technology and solid engineering.
While we can’t brag that our aircraft are quite as stunning as a Black Hawk or the new Defiant, FairLifts does offer a variety of helicopters used for lifts involving construction, surveys, and charters to our loyal clients. Give us a call to speak with one of our aerial logistic experts to get a free same day quote for your next project.