Just seen a presentation on CleanSky2 a development of the X3.
Currently the suggestion was that the development was focused for civilian operation, not military with SAR, EMS and VIP transport the suggested mission profile. With the aircraft in the design phase perhaps all may change but with the X3 as a starting point what are the thoughts on anti torque?
The schematic shown for the X3 shows the main gearbox as a EC175 item but with newly designed gearboxes for the wingtip propellers. Does that pose a bigger problem in terms of failure point and consequence? - i.e 2x elements to fail as there are 2x gearboxes for props and also failure of the left gearbox would have great effect on control? Or can one prop effect enough pitch change to control anti-torque? Which if it can why not just run one prop (220knts doesn't seem too challenging from the prop element). How about OEI?
Also with the focus being upon EMS/SAR is prop wash a consideration?
Then operationally with the target being 220knts++ operationally does that present any challenges? Thinking basic collision avoidance to bird strike.