I Eurocopter ima sličan projekat hibridnog helikoptera koji je predstavljen svega par dana nakon vesti o napretku programa X2, interesantno je da se Eurocopterov prototip zove X3
Razlika je u tome što je prototip Sikorskog sličniji borbenom helikopteru, dok Eurocopterov prototip je transportni helikopter.
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X3 flies in France
Eurocopter has begun test flights of its X3 High-speed, long-range Hybrid Helicopter (H3) concept.
Gary Parsons - 27-Sep-2010
September 27: Eurocopter has begun test flights of its X3 High-speed, long-range Hybrid Helicopter (H3) concept, which is intended to cruise at speeds of more than 220kts.
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. Eurocopter sees a wide range of roles for the concept including long-distance search and rescue (SAR) missions, coast guard duties, border patrol missions, passenger transport and inter-city shuttle services. It also may be well-suited for military missions in Special Forces operations, troop transport, combat SAR and medical evacuation.
The X3 demonstrator’s first flight was on September 6 in southern France at the Istres DGA Flight Testing Centre, operated by the French DGA government agency. Initial testing will continue through December with reduced power, progressively opening the flight envelope to speeds of approximately 180kts. After a three-month upgrade, X3 flights will resume in March 2011 with the goal of reaching sustained cruise speeds in excess of 220kts.
Izvor: key.aero