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kurious
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Is anyone still developing the airplanes that fly a few feet above the surface of the sea to get increased lift?
drag said:I heard about the Russian cargo plane.
How about missiles - short and medium range for marine
warfare, any of those out there ?
Would seem like a great idea - saving fuel and partially
evading detection and countermeasures.
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The russians being as fantastic as they are produced a huge ekranoplan called the Caspian Sea Monster, covered in all sorts of weaponry. Had a range far greater than any ship and could go across sand dunes and low level land. There's video footage of it out there. Truely amazing to see
Also, there are a few light passenger ekranoplans on sale in america but of course they can't make them as well as the russians could!
enigma said:How is it that flying at such a low altitude increases lift?
Airplanes that fly close to the surface of the sea use a technique called ground effect to create lift. This is when the high pressure air beneath the wings is trapped and compressed, creating a cushion of air that helps the plane stay aloft at a lower altitude.
Flying low over the sea can offer several advantages, such as reducing fuel consumption and increasing speed due to the ground effect. It can also provide better visibility for pilots, making it easier to navigate and spot potential hazards.
While flying low over the sea does come with some risks, such as potential water hazards and reduced maneuverability, trained pilots are able to safely navigate and avoid these dangers. Additionally, strict regulations and guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of these flights.
No, not all airplanes are capable of flying close to the sea. This technique is typically used by small, lightweight aircraft with high wing loading, such as seaplanes and some military planes. These types of planes are designed to handle the unique challenges of flying in ground effect.
Flying low over the sea can have a minimal impact on the environment, as it reduces the noise pollution typically associated with traditional flights. However, it is important for pilots to follow regulations and guidelines to avoid disturbing marine life or causing damage to sensitive ecosystems.