Eurocopter has begun test flights of the X3 demonstrator for its high-speed, long-range hybrid helicopter (H3) concept.
The X3 demonstrator is equipped with two turboshaft engines that power a five-blade main rotor system and two propellers installed on short-span fixed wings.
The combination creates an advanced transportation system, offering the speed of a turboprop aircraft and the full hover flight capabilities of a helicopter.
The concept is tailored to applications where operational costs, flight duration and mission success depend directly on the maximum cruising speed.
Eurocopter envisages a range of applications for the H3 configuration, including long-distance search and rescue missions, coast guard duties, border patrol missions, passenger transport and inter-city shuttle services.
It also may be well suited to military missions in special forces operations, troop transport, combat SAR and medical evacuation.
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By GlobalDataInitial testing will continue until December 2010 with reduced power and gradually opening the flight envelope to speeds of approximately 180kt.
Followed by a three-month upgrade, X3 will resume flights in March 2011 with the goal of reaching sustained cruise speeds of over 220kt.
