Sikorsky presented the S-97 Raider composite helicopter at the Paris Air Show, a new stage in the development of reconnaissance and strike aircraft

S-97 Raider

Lockheed Martin's subsidiary, Sikorsky— made the international debut of its innovative composite helicopter, the S-97 Raider, at the Paris Air Show 2025. This next-generation helicopter is designed as a reconnaissance and attack platform capable of providing the US Army with high maneuverability and speed on the modern battlefield.

Features and innovations of the S-97 Raider

- Composite design: The S-97 combines a rotary-wing design with two main rotors and a pusher propeller, which provides significantly higher speed and maneuverability compared to traditional helicopters.

- High speed: Thanks to its unique aerodynamics, the Raider is capable of speeds up to 440 km/h, which is almost twice the speed of conventional combat helicopters.

- Multifunctional: The helicopter is designed to perform reconnaissance missions, fire support, as well as precision strikes against ground and air targets.

- Modern control and weapons systems: The S-97 is equipped with advanced avionics, communication systems and the ability to integrate various types of weapons, including missiles and machine guns.

The appearance of the S-97 Raider on the international stage, especially in Europe, reflects the growing transatlantic cooperation in the field of defense and modernization of the armed forces. The demonstration of the helicopter at the Paris Air Show was an important signal to the US allies about new vertical lift and air support capabilities.

The S-97 Raider is seen as a key element of future combat concepts where speed, maneuverability, and versatility play a crucial role. Its innovative design can become the basis for the development of new generations of combat helicopters capable of operating effectively in high-tech conflicts.