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.