One of the most interesting strands in aviation history has been the
development of wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicles, or as they are more
commonly known by their Russian name, ekranoplans.
Beginning with a brief outline of the concept from the theory to viable
technical solutions, the book gives a historical survey of the
development of WIG research and construction in Russia. A large part of
the book focuses on a type-by-type description of specific designs of
ekranoplans developed in the Soviet Union and Russia in the course of
half a century. Special emphasis is given to the activities of Rostislav
Alekseyev, who has played an enormous role in the development of this
new technology. Ekranoplans developed by several other major design
bureau, notably those led by Sukhoi, Bartini and Beriyev, are also
considered.
Economic and political transformations following the break-up of the
Soviet Union led to the emergence of privately owned design bureau and
firms that are now pursuing the development of WIG craft in Russia,
given the lack of interest on the part of the military and the state in
this branch of transport technology. This new edition has been fully
updated with 60 new pages and highlights projects that are under
development. Packed with photos, artworks and drawings, the book
includes examples of similar technology being developed in countries
outside of Russia, including the USA, Germany and China.
