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World's largest aircraft leaves hangar for first time ahead of maiden flight
Four years after the US Army deemed it too expensive, the hybrid airship – a carbon-composite cross between a zeppelin, a helicopter and an aeroplane - was gently piloted into the open in a delicate five-minute operation.....a case of a great design and novel airship, looking for a purpose. (www.telegraph.co.uk) Más...Sort type: [Top] [Newest]
The U.S.Army may not be the appropriate branch of service to which this airship might be presented.The U.S. Navy had LTA serving on radar picket duty for many years. In elementary school I presented a project on the ZPG-3W which performed the radar picket duty. IMHO LTA can provide a great alternative to seaborne transportation in addition to non-combat military roles such as surveillance and logistics.
I have to agree with Fritz. I believe that the US Navy or the US Air Force would be better choices to use this aircraft. I see radar picket duty for the Navy and possible AWACS duty for the Air Force. The Telegraph also shows passenger use. But, there are possible cargo uses as well. The Telegraph also says the cost is £17.5 million which at current exchange rates would be maybe $18 million US.
Both you and Fritz should actually have considered Border Patrol and Coast Guard...slow speed but high endurance would make it ideal for drug and people interdiction if the political will to do that becomes available.
I doubt it would be fast enough for drug interdiction use, maybe refugee boat interdiction though.
Good point! I didn't consider that. The Coast Guard could probably use it for rescue work, however it couldn't be used in storms because f it's slow speed. I do see it for drug interdiction roles.
Gee that thing has an ugly butt!