Sikorsky Awarded Study Contract for NATO Next Generation Helicopter

The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has selected Lockheed Martin Sikorsky to conduct a study on integrated platform concepts for NATO’s Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) program.

Andy Adams, vice president of Sikorsky Future Vertical Lift, expressed readiness to design a rotorcraft prototype, highlighting the potential of their X2 technology. “Our X2 aircraft will harness the strengths of Lockheed Martin and input from our European Industry Group to provide an integrated system combining speed, range, maneuverability, survivability, and flexibility,” Adams said.

Lockheed Martin Sikorsky’s European Industry Group includes BAE Systems, GE Aerospace, and Rheinmetall. These partners will contribute their expertise to advance NATO’s capabilities with the X2 integrated platform concept.

With over $1 billion invested and 15 years of development, the X2 rotorcraft, including the S-97 RAIDER, are being tested to validate their operational capabilities.

NSPA General Manager Stacy A. Cummings emphasized the significance of this contract, noting, “The launch of Concept Study #5 is a milestone for the NGRC and demonstrates NSPA’s dedication to next generation medium lift challenges. This strategy maximizes industry expertise and engagement, providing diverse concepts for our multinational customers.”

The NGRC program, launched in 2022, includes France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Canada, with the United States and Spain as observers. It seeks to develop a medium-class, multi-role rotorcraft to replace existing helicopters.