Bendix J

Origins and Innovative Design

In 1944, Vincent Bendix established Bendix Helicopters, a small rotorcraft company later rebranded as Helicopters Inc. Designer Martin Jensen developed two similar projects for the company: the single-seat Bendix K and the four-seat Bendix J.

Both helicopters utilized a coaxial design, featuring two two-bladed counter-rotating main rotors on the same axis, a sophisticated configuration for its era.

Testing and Evaluation

In 1946, two prototypes of the Bendix J helicopter were manufactured, bearing the registration numbers NX74101 and NX74102. The maiden flight of the first prototype occurred on September 15, 1946.

The aircraft underwent a comprehensive testing cycle and was subsequently proposed to the US Navy aviation. Despite its innovative design, the Bendix J was ultimately not accepted for production.

Legacy and Influence

Though not mass-produced, the Bendix J’s design proved influential. In 1947, the Gyrodyne Company of America developed its own model, the GCA-2A, directly based on the innovative helicopter structure.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Bendix J
Main rotor diameter, m	14. 60
Length, m	6.48
Maximum takeoff weight	2041
Engine type	1 Piston engine Pratt & Whitney R-985-B4 Wasp Junior
Power, kW	1 x 336
Maximum speed, km/h	180
Cruising speed, km/h	137
Practical range, km	434
Crew	4

Image and diagram gallery of the Bendix J

Bendix J	Bendix J
Bendix J	Bendix J
Bendix J