Originally Posted by
Lonewolf_50
Just out of curiosity, why the round (cross section) external fuel tank rather than one with different angles? Also, the tail rotor in that photo does not align with some of the pictures from the 2011 raid, so perhaps that photo is the old "this is a work in progress" deal.
Perhaps because non stealthy round tanks could be jettisoned before reduced cross section was really needed on certain missions? External tanks are rarely jettisoned, but for a a really high profile mission such as Eagle Claw or OBL raid maybe tanks could be jettisoned before reaching the higher threat target area. Maybe even the whole stores pylon could be jettisoned? I do agree with you this has the appearance of a development bird, with incremental bits and bobs being trialed.
Interesting possible link to Felker Field at Ft. Eustis. Usually a pretty sleepy field but always with some interesting relics from various 1960's and 1970's rotor projects dumped about the field and a few preserved on base, such as the high speed compound Huey's and others. It was neat to drive around and see some surprises. The transportation museum there is worth a visit, with great Army aviation pavilion, and a few more aircraft inside, including the crazy single solider VTOL experiments.