New images circulating on Chinese social media show that China may be testing a second prototype of a hybrid helicopter based on a coaxial rotor and rear thrust propeller structure. This concept is a technology widely known by Sikorsky in the United States.
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Unlike the model previously seen in 2025, which was very similar to the S-97 Raider, the new aircraft appears to be larger and closer to the SB>1 Defiant, suggesting a major upgrade or development of a new variant.
The helicopter features a longer, slimmer fuselage, with elements likely indicating changes to the powerplant, along with a possible fairing over the rotor hub. Although the quality of the images does not allow for a precise technical analysis, experts point out clear similarities with Sikorsky’s X2 technology. It includes a coaxial main rotor that rotates in opposite directions and a tail-mounted propulsion rotor, designed to significantly increase speed and performance.
Experts who monitor Chinese military aviation believe the project is part of a broader technology assessment similar to the United States’ Future Vertical Lift program. At the same time, China also unveiled tiltrotors developed by other manufacturers, showing that it is testing multiple configurations to find the structure best suited to future operational needs.
This type of helicopter offers important advantages in military environments, such as longer range, higher speed, rapid acceleration and deceleration capabilities, and superior maneuverability over conventional helicopters and tiltrotors. These characteristics enable faster movement, reduced exposure to threats, and greater evasion capabilities, making them key elements of operations on the modern battlefield.
source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @RupprechtDeino | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team
The Changhe coaxial testbed was seen again!
(via @ouyangzhenwo86468 from Weibo) pic.twitter.com/ODTPHAAYOx
— @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) February 5, 2026
