[Yang Nakgyu's Defense video] What is the Future Reconnaissance Helicopter of the US Army?

[Asia Economy Reporter Yang Nak-gyu] The outline of the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA), which the U.S. Army plans to introduce in 2028, is beginning to emerge, drawing attention.

The U.S. Army is promoting the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft - Prototype (FARA-CP) project to replace the Cobra attack helicopter deployed in combat since 1965 and the Apache attack helicopter deployed since 1986. Five defense companies have entered the competition for this project: Bell, Sikorsky, Boeing, L-3, and Karem, all helicopter manufacturers based in the U.S.

The U.S. Army has many requirements. The FARA project design and prototype request for proposal released by the U.S. Army include ▲a small platform that can minimize radar cross-section ▲light attack and close combat capabilities, and long-range mission performance. In particular, to avoid repeating failures like the canceled Comanche project in 2004, flexibility was given to the requirements by considering technological levels and reasonable pricing during the project process.

Sikorsky, competing in the FARA project, unveiled the 'Raider X,' a lightweight attack helicopter version of the S-97 Raider. Following that, Bell presented the 'Bell 360 Invictus.' It minimizes external attachments to enhance helicopter stealth and avoid ground attacks. Notably, it eliminates left and right weapon pads and mounts weapons internally to minimize radar cross-section (RCS) effects. It has a top speed of 370 km/h and a combat radius of 250 km.

Boeing revealed its prototype model concept through a video on the 3rd. According to the video released by Boeing, it features a six-blade rotor, single engine, tandem seating, and autonomous maneuvering capabilities.

Mark Cherry, Boeing Vice President and head of Boeing Phantom Works, stated, "It is cost-effective with integrated systems and includes long-range precision fire and Air-Launched Effects (ALE)."