7/30/2007 - STRATFORD, Conn., - Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. today reported the successful ground testing of new fly-by-wire technology designed to improve significantly the maneuverability, safety and effectiveness of aircraft. It will debut on 28 H-92 helicopters that the Canadian military forces will begin receiving in early 2009.

The fly-by-wire system electronically links the controls inside the cockpit with the exterior actuators, the movement of which enable the aircraft to maneuver where and how the pilot intends. Eliminating the traditional mechanical linkage saves weight, reduces maintenance costs, adds capability and improves performance. The new system was developed in association with BAE Systems.

"During two days of ground testing, the fly-by-wire system performed exactly as designed and met every expectation," said Dan Hunter, Sikorsky manager for the Canadian H-92 program. "We're on track toward system certification and then providing the Canadian Forces with these state-of-the-art helicopters."

The H-92 is a military variant of the Sikorsky S-92 helicopter. The Canadian Forces will use the aircraft for search and rescue, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and utility transport. In addition to the fly-by-wire system, they will feature the Rotor Ice Protection System, which the Transport Canada regulatory agency certified in 2005 as enabling safe flight into known icing conditions. Other features include a full glass cockpit, 360 degree radar, forward looking infrared system, acoustics mission equipment, torpedo armament system, full defensive protection suite and shipboard haul-down system, and automatic blade and tail fold.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Connecticut, USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing and service. The company's mission statement reflects its long commitment to safety and innovation: "We pioneer flight solutions that bring people home everywhere...every time." United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Source: Sikorsky Press Release