October 4, 2013 at 7:05 pm
The two aircraft seem to be very similar all around. There are major differences, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
BA609
Twice the engines
Twice the range
50% heavier mtow
25k’ flight ceiling, substantial lower hover ceiling
S-97
Higher hover ceiling both in and out of ground effect
More options for mounting armaments
Half the price
Less training for the pilot pool
I started this thread so people can debate the military advantages of both programs comparing one to the other.