Sikorsky–Boeing SB-1 Defiant 

The Sikorsky–Boeing SB-1 Defiant (stylized as "SB>1"; company designation S-100) is the Sikorsky Aircraft and Boeing entry for the United States Army's Future Vertical Lift program, succeeding the Joint Multi-Role (JMR) initiative. It is a compound helicopter with rigid coaxial rotors, powered by two Honeywell T55 turboshaft engines; it first flew on 21 March 2019.

Assault aircraft like the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) fly low and fast, the land quickly delivers Soldiers to the X, and get out — all while evading the enemy in complex terrain. Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company, and partner Boeing have come together as Team DEFIANT to create an agile, maneuverable weapon system that flies twice as far and twice as fast as the BLACK HAWK — and fits in the same operational footprint. With Team DEFIANT’s unsurpassed experience in mission systems, training and sustainment, DEFIANT X will revolutionize the way the Army meets threats in 2035 and beyond. DEFIANT X is the best solution for the Army’s mission today, and the only solution able to adapt to the threats of tomorrow.

Maneuverability

X2 speed, combined with next-generation flight control maneuverability, will dominate in future Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO) environments. X2™ Technology offers a revolutionary flight-control design that will enable deceleration and acceleration that is truly transformational. X2-rotor design will ensure extraordinary flight stability, safety, and assurance in the most rigorous of tactical operations. DEFIANT X will be equipped with a proven optionally-piloted flight control system that will enable more reliable and safer operations in low altitude, obstacle-rich environments or in degraded, uncertain conditions. Providing speed where it matters, DEFIANT X is ready for the future battlefield.

Survivability

With unmatched range and survivability, DEFIANT X will change the way the Army fights – enabling crews to fly low and fast through complex terrain, where Army aviators spend most of their time. DEFIANT X incorporates Sikorsky X2™ Technology to operate at high speeds while maintaining low-speed handling qualities. This critical capability provides pilots with increased maneuverability and survivability in high-threat air defense environments, allowing them to penetrate enemy defenses while reducing exposure to enemy fire. DEFIANT X’s compound co-axial rotor system and pusher prop allows for a high degree of maneuverability in and around the objective which is also directly linked to survivability. DEFIANT X is the choice between just getting there and achieving mission success.

Producibility

Together, Sikorsky and Boeing have built more than 90 percent of the U.S. Army’s current military rotorcraft and have totaled more than 15 million flight hours. We’re the team that has produced iconic military rotorcraft including BLACK HAWK, Chinook, and Apache, and we are in the best position to deliver interoperability with the enduring fleet. With proven worldwide supply chain partners, DEFIANT X will leverage an established, low-risk manufacturing capability that is augmented by a proven digital thread and advanced manufacturing processes in use today on the BLACK HAWK, Combat Rescue Helicopter, and CH-53K. Sikorsky and Boeing’s joint resources and experience in JADO capabilities make the DEFIANT X team the best team to deliver a holistic weapons system to the Army.

Sustainability

The digital thread will run seamlessly throughout the DEFIANT X design, development, production and sustainment process. DEFIANT X will be part of a connected logistical network that provides maintenance-free operating periods, improves interoperability and sustainment and lowers overall costs through the data analytics of condition-based maintenance. It's the choice between rebuilding infrastructure or seamlessly introducing the world's most advanced vertical lift weapon system.

Continuity

The transformational capabilities of speed, range, and convergence in the DEFIANT X design deliver next-generation capabilities to the ground maneuver commander. Having the same operational sizing point as a BLACK HAWK enables DEFIANT X to land information, massing combat power in support of the ground tactical plan. Soldiers that have trained and deployed with BLACK HAWKs will be familiar with the proven crashworthy, survivable seating configuration of DEFIANT X. Maintainers will also appreciate DEFIANT X as it will leverage today's existing U.S. Army aviation support infrastructure.