“The first fuselage marks a significant milestone for the industry-funded RAIDER helicopter program,” said Debra Zampano, Sikorsky S-97 RAIDER Program Director. “Aurora has delivered an advanced composite aerostructure designed for our rapid development program. The Sikorsky team is now ready for final assembly of the prototype RAIDER aircraft. We look forward to showcasing the aircraft’s exceptional performance and value to the U.S. military.”

Sikorsky will convert the fuselage into a 36-foot-long, 11,000-lb.-gross weight S-97 RAIDER prototype aircraft. Configured to Sikorsky’s X2® coaxial design, the fly-by-wire controlled helicopter will feature counter-rotating rigid main rotor blades for lift and forward flight, and a pusher propeller for high speed acceleration and deceleration.