Half Boat, Half Plane: How An Ekranoplan Works

Lots of power

In the case of the Soviet-era Lun Ekranoplan (pictured), 8 turbofan engines were needed to generate enough forward velocity to lift the 340-ton vehicle.

Cushion of high-pressure air

A ground effect vehicle 'rides' upon this air, decreasing drag and increasing lift efficiency.

Short, stubby wings

Wings need to be short, relative to body size, to maintain near-surface air conditions.

Lots of power

In the case of the Soviet-era Lun Ekranoplan (pictured), 8 turbofan engines were needed to generate enough forward velocity to lift the 340-ton vehicle.

Short, stubby wings

Wings need to be short, relative to body size, to maintain near-surface air conditions.

Cushion of high-pressure air

A ground effect vehicle 'rides' upon this air, decreasing drag and increasing lift efficiency.

Cushion of high-pressure air

A ground effect vehicle 'rides' upon this air, decreasing drag and increasing lift efficiency.

Short, stubby wings

Wings need to be short, relative to body size, to maintain near-surface air conditions.

Lots of power

In the case of the Soviet-era Lun Ekranoplan (pictured), 8 turbofan engines were needed to generate enough forward velocity to lift the 340-ton vehicle.