In the 1970's, the major issue facing the U.S. helicopter industry was what company would win the contract to replace the aging Vietnam vintage Bell H-1 "Huey" helicopter fleet. The Huey had established itself as the premier workhorse for the military. It was used extensively for troop transport, cargo, gunship attack roles, and rescue missions.
Large View of this Huey. (beware 123K!!!!)

After extensive bidding and redesign, Sikorsky won the contract to supply the next generation of military utility helicopters. The H-60 "Hawk" become the framework model for each of the military's branches.



US Navy - Seahawk, Oceanhawk, and Firehawk
US Army - Blackhawk
US Air Force - Pavehawk
US Coast Guard - Jayhawk
Large View of this H-60. (beware 76K!!!!)

The future of vertical transport lies in the development of a hybrid vertical lift machine. The Bell/Boeing team won the contract to develop this new technology called the V-22 "Osprey". The Osprey can take off like a helicopter in confined areas, yet cruise at very high speeds like an airplane reaching destinations much faster than a helicopter. The speed of a helicopter is limited to around 120-130 knots per hour (approx. 140- 150mph) only because of the aerodynamics of the huge horizontal blade on top. By tilting that blade vertically, the aerodynamics are changed and the blades can handle much higher speeds performing like an airplane. After many close budget cuts, the Marine Corps has managed to save the Osprey which it hopes will replace the aging H-46 "Sea Knight" and H-1 "Huey" fleets. Since the program has been so successful, the Bell/Boeing team has developed a civilian model that will redfine the airline commuter market. Imagine planes taking off of skyscrapers in New York City!
Large View of this Osprey. (beware 200K!!!!)

Another entrant in the helicopter wars is Kaman. They have stuck by their reliable "counter-rotating" technology. In essence, they mounted two main horizontal blades intermeshing like an egg-beater. The net result is no tail rotor to counteract torque of the main blade. Since their is no tail rotor, more power can be directed to the main rotor blades. The K-Max is an agile cargo lifting machine that presents a whole new slant to vertical lift.
Large View of this K-Max. (beware 83K!!!!)

E-mail your comments to Frank: Carr88@aol.com