Honeywell Engine Chosen to Propel DEFIANT X by Lockheed Martin Sikorsky-Boeing
Sikorsky, a division of Lockheed Martin, alongside Boeing, has today proclaimed Honeywell as the engine supplier for DEFIANT X, the state-of-the-art helicopter designed for the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) initiative.
With Honeywell delivering the HTS7500 turboshaft engine, Team DEFIANT brings unmatched military aviation expertise to transform Army air assault while effortlessly integrating with existing platforms, established tactics, and current infrastructure. DEFIANT X® is poised to be the swiftest, most agile, and resilient assault helicopter ever built.
“The strength of Team DEFIANT is founded on the expertise of Sikorsky and Boeing, alongside a dedication to Army Aviation,” stated Mark Cherry, Vice President and General Manager of Boeing Vertical Lift. “Honeywell’s extensive partnership with Boeing and the U.S. Army reinforces our belief that DEFIANT X® is the optimal choice for the Army’s comprehensive mission objectives.”
“DEFIANT X® represents a revolutionary aircraft, and Honeywell is providing us with an innovative engine to power it,” remarked Paul Lemmo, President of Sikorsky. “DEFIANT X® is fine-tuned for operational efficiency, sustainability, and interoperability with the existing fleet, promising to revolutionize the Army.”
DEFIANT X® is a full-fledged weapon system that enhances the handling characteristics and capabilities proven by the team’s technology demonstrator, SB>1 DEFIANT®. It is capable of flying double the distance and speed than the esteemed Black Hawk helicopter it aims to replace. Currently being tested in a digital combat setting, the aircraft continues to showcase its superiority as the most resilient platform for mission demands.
“Honeywell is thrilled to be an integral part of Team DEFIANT and proud to contribute to the evolution of vertical lift for the U.S. Army,” remarked Ricky Freeman, President of Defense & Space at Honeywell Aerospace. “We are assured that our HTS7500 engine on the DEFIANT X® framework will furnish the Army with a nimble, swift, and agile platform that will ensure superiority in future combat scenarios.”
Sikorsky-Boeing submitted the proposal for DEFIANT X® for the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft in September 2021. A contract award is anticipated this year.
