Bell Textron Inc. has announces its achievement of a significant milestone in the DARPA Speed and Runway Independent Technology (SPRINT) program, with its completion of wind tunnel testing at Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR). These tests confirmed the stability and control
of Bell’s Stop/Fold rotor system during in-flight transitions, advancing the SPRINT-X concept closer to a full flight demonstration.
“After completing folding rotor transition testing on the sled at Holloman Air Force Base last year, we’re thrilled to have now completed this next phase of testing,” says Jason Hurst, executive vice president, Engineering, Bell. “Bell’s advanced Stop/Fold family of systems will revolutionize the speed, range and survivability of vertical lift aircraft to enable operations in contested environments. We are excited to be part of another aviation milestone with this breakthrough technology.”
Bell’s scalable Stop/Fold rotor configurations integrate the speed and performance of modern jets with vertical lift capabilities and runway independence, allowing for unparalleled mission flexibility. This system enables warfighters to operate from austere environments, maximizing payload and range while adhering to Agile Combat Employment (ACE) principles.
These advancements are particularly significant for operations in the Indo-Pacific theater, where vast distances, limited runway access, and contested airspace demand exceptional adaptability. By combining speed, range, and runway independence, the SPRINT-X platform provides a transformative solution for next-generation air mobility.
The Stop/Fold rotor is also uniquely suited for Special Operations missions, offering rapid deployment, extended reach, and enhanced survivability in high-threat environments. This versatility ensures optimal performance in scenarios requiring precision and resilience under challenging conditions.
Currently in Phase 1B of the DARPA SPRINT program, Bell is focused on the design and development of an experimental X-Plane. This aircraft aims to demonstrate the transformative potential of the Stop/Fold rotor system and its integration into next-generation air combat and mobility platforms.
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Source/Photo: Bell Textron, Inc.
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