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. A
wide range of utilizations are envisaged for this hybrid
configuration, including long-distance search and rescue
(SAR), coast guard duties, border patrol missions,
passenger transport, off-shore airlift, along with
inter-city shuttle services. It also is well-suited for
military missions in special forces operations, troop
transport, combat SAR and medical evacuation –
benefitting from the combination of higher cruise speeds
with excellent vertical takeoff/landing performance.
Eurocopter advanced the hybrid configuration from
concept to first flight in less than three years. After
going airborne for the first time in September 2010, the
aircraft’s flight envelope was quickly opened – reaching
the initial speed objective of 180 kts. (333 km/hr.) in
level flight only weeks later. Flights resumed in March
2011 after a planned upgrade to integrate the definitive
gearboxes for operations at full power, with the X3
easily surpassing its original speed target of sustained
cruise speeds in excess of 220 kts. |