I have always been very interested in the Ekranoplan platform. Although not much unique ever came from the slaves of communism, this remains one fascinating concept. Could it have been used to deliver thousands of troops to New York or Los Angeles, under radar and at high speed? An Ekranoplan is a fast ship with wings. It’s not a “flying boat“. They are ground effect machines, never taking to the skies. Ground Effect is generally described as limited to a zone no higher than the wingspan of the craft.
History Channel, “Soviets Top Secret Weapons” Starting with the Ekronoplan segment:
http://youtu.be/AcUJJNNxj3M?t=18m49s
History Channels “Soviets Top Secret Weapons” entire episode below:
An amazingly SLOW Radio Control Ekronoplane from Japan:
Is that small electric or 2 stroke power plants? I’m not sure. It sure looks BIG for a model.
A modern Seagull IV WIG:
From Russia, Ride aboard Aquaglide-5:
Promotional Aquaglide-5 video. Great early video inside.
English with the thickest Russian accent you’ve ever tried to decode!
Information sites related to Ground Effect Vehicles:
The WIG Page – (Wing In Ground Effect)
Most complete info and photo site for various creations: Rada Craft – What Else Is There?
Dark Roasted Blend Blogsite: Ekranoplans Showcase with photo’s of real and concepts.