3 ms·
Looks a bit...inefficient? At least compared to regular helicopters, and I assume it doesn't go much faster than a helicopter going by its design. But at least
by higherpurpose 11y ago
Looks a bit...inefficient? At least compared to regular helicopters, and I assume it doesn't go much faster than a helicopter going by its design. But at least its bigger than any existing helicopter, so there's that.
- falcolas 11y agoMore inefficient at vtol, but much more efficient at forward flight (wings are remarkably efficient at generating lift, compared to rotors). Specifically, more efficient in terms of effective range and carrying capacity.
- larrydag 11y agoI believe the range and speed are the assets of the V-22 compared to similar size helicopters. http://helicopters.axlegeeks.com/compare/18-24/Sikorsky-CH-53K-vs-Bell-BOEING-V-22-Osprey http://helicopters.axlegeeks.com/compare/18-24/Sikorsky-CH-5... As I understand it the main drawback of the V-22 is the drag effect of the "larger" blades in airplane mode. So I assume that NASA is testing tilt-rotor aircraft with more engines with smaller blades in hopes of increasing the range and speed over current tilt-rotor aircraft.
- baldeagle 11y agoIt isn't bigger on the inside or capable of lifting more. But it goes faster, and further (though that is a combination of more fuel and slightly better mileage). It will be useful we use more smaller, lighter vechiles or autonomous pack drones. I don't think it will be dropping MRAPs or 40 Marines anywhere anytime soon though. I guess it reflects a change of the overall military to smaller, more mobile forces.