WIRE STRIKE CUTTER CONCEPT

The Helicopter Wire Strike Cutter is a multi-role device that attaches to the mast of helicopters. This active system brings four innovative improvements to the wire protection state-of-the-art. The first application is that of a wire and cable cutter. This innovative design uses rotor rpm to deliver rotational energy to the drum shaped cutter, which is covered with hundreds of cable-cutting blades. Second, the cutter is an aerodynamic fairing that reduces parasitic drag induced at the rotor hub. During combat operations, enemy radar and infrared equipment can detect and acquire opposing helicopters. The drum configuration may effectively cloak metal surfaces of the mast assembly and serve as an electronic warfare counter-measure. Fourth, the drum serves as a cover, protecting bearing surfaces and flight controls located on the mast assembly. Direct contact with adverse conditions such as blowing sand, saltwater, ice, and debris are virtually eliminated. No other device collectively solves these problems. The innovative concept brings cable and wire strike protection into the 21st century.