The JMR (Joint Multi-Role/SB>1 Defiant) presents the first phase (proof of airframe and flight performance) in the US Future Vertical Lift program (medium lift). Phase 2 will start in 2016 and provide mission packages. First flight is planned for a selected team (down selection in 3Q 2014, presentation this week) by 2017. Boeing is working on that since September together with Sikorsky (50% each). The system should deliver high speed cruise without jeopardizing low speed helicopter performance and a Hot/High performance of 6,000 ft/95 degrees. The Boeing/Sikorsky design will have a rigid co-axial rotor design and a push propeller, with a fly-by-wire system that allows full control of rotor RPM. The JMR should have better vertical performance than today’s systems.
Andre Forkert