Eurocopter X3 To Go Beyond 232 Knots

In May, Eurocopter’s proof-of-concept compound, the X3, reached 232 ktas, a speed it sustained during five minutes at 8,500 feet. It also demonstrated a rate of climb greater than 5,000 fpm. The crew flew pitch-up attitudes in the 30- to 50-degree range. Roll angles were taken to 80 degrees of bank. Program officials aimed to achieve speeds beyond 232 knots after the Paris Air Show, although they target 220 knots as an economical sweet spot.