We were eating dinner and all of a sudden the chandelier started shaking and you could hear helicopters. We went outside and saw about 5 or 6 large helicopters that seemed like they would belong to a military branch. Not sure if they came from Camp Mabry? Anyone else see those??
The Helicopter Fleet of the Future
With helicopter designs offered by European manufacturers reaching over 30 years, and with the advent of stealth technologies and advanced sensors, Airbus has been tasked with developing next-generation helicopters to fill the role of medium-lift multirole and attack helicopter. The development of these products will be done in parallel and will maximize commonality between them, decreasing operational costs for its users.
- AH100: The Airbus Helicopters AH100 is a medium-lift military helicopter, a direct response to European requirements for a next-generation multi-role helicopter. It is expected for this helicopter to fulfill several roles such as medium-sized transport, anti-submarine warfare, and ship/land-based utility operations.
- AH Jaguar: The AH Jaguar is a multi-role attack helicopter planned to replace the EC Tiger and to compete with American designs. It is capable of undertaking a wide range of combat missions, including armed reconnaissance and surveillance, anti-tank and close air support, escort, and protection of friendly assets.
Overview
Both helicopters follow a state-of-the-art stealth design layout, incorporating a number of different techniques and technologies in order to reduce their radar cross-section (RCS) along with other areas of visibility and detectability. The exterior surfaces are faceted and covered with both radar-absorbent material (RAM) coatings and infrared-suppressant paint. Furthermore, it makes use of advanced technologies, such as a new design of the rotor blades which uses composite materials, making the helicopter's acoustic signal impossible to track.
The fuselage structure is modular and comprises an aluminum-lithium alloy, designed to be both light and damage-resistant. The helicopters are designed for operating in extreme weather conditions; it is fitted with a de-icing system and rated to operate in temperatures ranging between −45 to +50 °C. The aircraft's control systems allow it to maintain a stable hover in 45 kn crosswinds. An active vibration control system, known as the active control of structural response system, reduces airframe vibration by up to 80% which increases crew comfort and minimizes the buildup of stress on the airframe. The cockpit is fitted with armored seats for the crew and can withstand an impact velocity of over 10 m/s. For the AH100, dual flight controls are provided, though these can be flown by a single person. The AH J
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