French-German company Airbus Helicopters announced that the Racer high-speed helicopter prototype made its first flight. It can reach speeds of up to 400 kilometers per hour.

Although the Racer looks like an ordinary helicopter, its aerodynamics are optimized for high subsonic speeds. Forward thrust is provided by two thrusters mounted on box-shaped wings, providing lift while flying 50% faster than conventional helicopters.

In the first flight, which lasted only half an hour, Racer demonstrated the aircraft’s basic capabilities. Over the next two years, the test program will become increasingly ambitious: the flight range will be expanded and the maximum speed will increase.