Blackhawk Engine Intake Anti-Ice
The U.S. Army had placed significant emphasis on maintainability and reliability in its requirements for the UTTAS ( Utility Tactical Aircraft System ).
At Sikorsky, we had extensive experience with electrically heated inlets on both the S-61 and S-65 series, and the design team was convinced that field reliability could be measurably improved with a pneumatic/bleed air system. Remember, this was a 1972 design choice.
Thanks,
John Dixson