Purpose-Built, Agile Single-Engine Helicopter
Boeing has revealed its candidate for the US Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) prototype competition.
Boeing’s FARA is designed to meet the Army’s current mission needs while providing margin for future evolution as technologies and missions change. The thrust-compounded single-main rotor helicopter boasts a six-bladed rotor system, a single engine, tandem seating and a modular, state-of-the-art cockpit with a reconfigurable large area display and autonomous capabilities.
“We’re offering more than a helicopter – we’re offering an affordable and fully integrated system for the Army, the mission and the future. We’ve blended innovation, ingenuity and proven rotorcraft experience with extensive testing and advanced analysis to offer a very compelling solution,” explained Mark Cherry, Vice President and General Manager of Boeing’s Phantom Works.
The fly-by-wire design leverages more than 65 years of rotorcraft experience, proven advanced and additive manufacturing technology and product commonality, driving down risk and costs. The system will provide seamless capability within the Army ecosystem to include Long-Range Precision Fires and air-launched effects.
“We listened to the Army, assessed all alternatives, and optimized our design to provide the right aircraft to meet the requirements,” stated Shane Openshaw, Boeing FARA Program Manager. “We are offering a very reliable, sustainable and flexible aircraft with a focus on safety and the future fight.”