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This ski design was developed over twenty years ago and its performance
is well established, the US military having found a number of applications for it.
It is characterized by extremely low friction, achieved because it leaves virtually no wake and no spray. It is very efficient at generating lift.  To takeoff the ski is extended and then power applied. Almost immediately the nose rises about nine degrees and the hull starts to lift out of the water. Even at maximum weight in calm conditions, the hull will be clear of the water by 17kts. The takeoff run will be almost exactly the same as a dry runway. For a water touchdown there is no hard unforgiving hull going onto the water. The ski has a shock absorber the same as a landing gear and therefore a water touchdown will be very similar to a runway landing. |