Helo Self Deployment System

Helo Self Deployment System

A system needs to be created to address the growing problem of getting adequate helicopter assets to theaters abroad. To address this problem, a Helo Self Deployment System should be developed and fielded.

The HSDS should consist of a pair of custom-designed wings that would attach to the helo at mounts on the sides that are otherwise used for weapons or fuel tanks. The wings would include fuel storage within the wing and would also include a custom-designed pusher engine to give the helicopter additional forward thrust. The wing and engine combination would be tailored to function at a particular cruise speed to optimize the lift and range capabilities of the platform for long-range travel.

Internally, the helo would use a fuel bladder in its cargo area and a flight control computer would be added with pre-programmed flight paths to get the helo to a given location automatically. This location may be a specific forward base or to a refueling point midway such as an island or a flattop ship in the ocean. Given the fact that we already have demonstrated automatic flight at long ranges (CALCM cruise missiles) as well as automated landing of helos on ships, the technology behind this should be a non-issue.

Using this system, ranges on the order of 2000 miles+ should be achievable for most helo systems currently in use. The CH-53 would probably be able to achieve around 3500 miles with this system. Besides allowing the self-deployment of helos, the HSDS would also fill the role proposed for the failed V-22. The systems would be removable once in theater allowing the options of a long-range vertical take-off and landing platform or a traditional helicopter.