Boeing presents a model of the Future Transport Helicopter

The US concern Boeing has returned to the ILA, where it is focusing on its helicopter division. Information is available not only about the current models, AH-64 Apache, H-47 Chinook and the tilt-rotor V-22 Osprey, but also about the light combat and reconnaissance helicopter, the AH-6i. Details will also be provided about project studies such as the Disc Rotor and a Joint Common Airlift System, a fuselage with wings onto which a choice of jet engines or rotors can be mounted. Also on show will be a model of the Future Transport Helicopter, designed to meet the future needs of the German and French armed forces. The 20 metre long fuselage has the internal dimensions of a C-130 Hercules and would be able to carry a load of some 36 tonnes. Boeing were not willing to comment on the announcement by the head of Eurocopter, Lutz Bertling, concerning a joint venture on this project. The US armed forces have so far not indicated any need for such a helicopter, according to Dave Jones, Director Rotorcraft Strategy & Programme Development.

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