Maybe the S-97 prototypes will allow them some time and opportunity to work the fairing issue.
From a late 2010 Sikorsky "Frontlines" release.
S-97 Raider helicopter prototypes will feature twin coaxial counter-rotating main rotors (in place of one main rotor and a tail rotor) and a pusher propeller.
{Describes modular design, to run a small (six person) assault, or more fuel and run a recon/weapons mission}.
In addition to flying at nearly twice the speed of a conventional helicopter, the S-97 Raider prototype aircraft will incorporate other key performance parameters critical to combat operations — increased maneuverability, greater endurance, and the ability to operate at high altitudes.
Compared to other light military helicopters, the Raider prototypes are expected to significantly reduce turning radius and acoustic noise signature, while significantly increasing the aircraft’s payload, flight endurance and hot and high hover capability.
The company expects to conduct its first major program milestone — a preliminary design review — in 2011. First flight, projected in four years, could depend in part on the pace of development and customer need.
Those interested in this program might want to keep an eye on how steep DoD budget cuts are. This program may be at risk in the fight for dollars. (Recalling what happened to Comanche ... )