The idea[]
It was a planned 1 man, single twin fan-bladed engine, flying, hover-platform of the late 1950s. The plan was to increase the US Army and US Marine Corps. mobility over things like ravines and mine fields.
Development[]
Due to safety concerns the US army demanded a 2nd motor and 3rd propeller-rotor be added and left in idle until on of the others broke down. Eventually it was scrapped due to the risk that a GI could fall in to the active rotor-blades in use and die.
The device[]
A single twin fan-bladed engine, flying, hover-platform of the late 1950s. The drive mechanism was like a upside down helicopter rotor blade, with the GI standing above on a platform, controlling it from a controller panel like on the Bell Pogo.
The "Basic US GI factor"[]
It was assumed by the US Army that a 19 year old recruit with only basic training must be able to use the kit after a brief chat and couple of demonstrations without killing or seriously injuring himself or others. It was thought to be to complex for such a low level of add-hock, in-field on the spot training as they envisaged.
Stats[]
- Crew- 1
- Speed- Intended to be slow.
- Flying height- Intended to be low.