KM Ekranoplan
Specs, top speed, range and facts
The KM Ekranoplan is an experimental ground-effect vehicle built by Alekseyev Design Bureau in USSR. It first flew in 1966, but it never entered regular service. Fly just above the sea in ground effect, carrying huge loads faster than ships.
Photo: Caspian Sea Monster on Wikipedia (free licence)
- Top speed500 km/h (311 mph)
- Range1,500 km (932 miles)
- First flight1966
- Wingspan37.6 m (123 ft)
KM Ekranoplan specs
| Top speed | 500 km/h (311 mph) |
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| Range | 1,500 km (932 miles) |
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| Length | 92 m (302 ft) |
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| Wingspan | 37.6 m (123 ft) |
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| Max takeoff weight | 544 t (1,199,302 lb) |
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| Crew and capacity | Experimental |
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| Engines | 10 × turbojet |
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| First flight | 1966 |
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| Entered service | Never entered regular service |
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| Built by | Alekseyev Design Bureau (USSR) |
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KM Ekranoplan facts
- A ground-effect craft that skimmed just above the sea on a cushion of air.
- Western intelligence nicknamed it the Caspian Sea Monster.
Quick quiz
When did the KM Ekranoplan first fly?
In 1966.
Who built the KM Ekranoplan?
Alekseyev Design Bureau, in USSR.
How fast can the KM Ekranoplan fly?
Its top speed is 500 km/h (311 mph).
How far can the KM Ekranoplan fly?
About 1,500 km (932 miles).
Photos, a true-scale silhouette, quizzes, flashcards, the Size Lab and the Sky Run game.
KM Ekranoplan vs similar aircraft
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