An overview of global trends towards future helicopter system capabilities from a developmental perspective

The work described in this report is a part of the project Plattformsanalys, within the aeronautical R&D program FoT Flygsystem. The project Plattformsanalys is tasked with developing and maintaining the capability to evaluate the military potential of different types of aeronautical platforms, both today operational and future ones. This information is useful in threat analysis as well as model and system development. The focal point of this report is vertical lift aerial systems. Although these systems have much in common with conventional airplanes there are also some fundamental differences, such as the propulsion system and the signature of the platform. The aim of this report is to demonstrate, through some examples, important future requirements on vertical lift aerial systems from a technical perspective. The report consist of three parts. The first part is a smaller review of current trends and future vertical lift development programs within Europe, USA and Russia. The second part highlights the signature aspects of helicopter systems and how these can be evaluated by using available tools within the agency. The third and final part of the report deals with structural aspects in the design and modification of helicopter systems as well as an example of structural analysis that can be useful in a certification process.