The US military helicopter is the fastest in the world.

The US Army is preparing to field the S-97 Raider, which has a top speed of over 405 km/h, far surpassing the previous record held by the CH-47F Chinook.

The S-97 helicopter during testing. Photo: Lockheed Martin.

The S-97 Raider is the latest helicopter developed by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. Army, capable of carrying six infantry soldiers and two pilots. It is considered the "latest major achievement" for the U.S. Army. The use of coaxial rotors and a tail-mounted pusher is the key to the S-97's high speed.Over 405 km/h, breaking the world's fastest speed record of 315 km/h.of the CH-47F Chinook transport helicopter, according toBusiness Insider.

The manufacturer describes the S-97 as a light tactical helicopter capable of operating in temperatures as low as 35 degrees Celsius and at altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters. It can serve a variety of missions, such as ground support and attack, reconnaissance, search and rescue, or even be converted into an unmanned helicopter.

In addition to its high speed, the S-97 is equipped with a variety of offensive weapons such as AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles, 70 mm Hydra rockets, and 12.7 mm or 7.62 mm machine guns. The aircraft is also relatively small; a C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft can carry up to four S-97s at once.

The S-97 Raider is a product of the Aerial Armed Reconnaissance (AAS) project.worth $200 millionThe S-97 was ordered by the US Army to develop a replacement for the OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter. Lockheed Martin is also offering the S-97 to the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force.

According to VNE