Born in the Cold War, this behemoth aircraft holds the world record for greatest lift

Some of the most advanced aeronautical and space system designs have been created in Russia, so it’s no surprise that this is where you'll find the most unusual Ekranoplan.
The Ekranoplan holds the world’s record for the greatest lift for any aircraft — 1,000 tons. It is powered by eight jet engines, travels at over 300 miles per hour and has room to carry 1,000 soldiers.
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The design is low tech but very effective. According to Global Aircraft, the Ekranoplan uses a “wing-in-ground” effect, essentially skimming over the water to increase range and to skirt under radar. It was a great achievement to solve a difficult engineering challenge with such success.
The Ekranoplan began operating in the Soviet Navy in 1987 and worked primarily as an antisubmarine variant. For this, it was fitted with six antiship missile launchers. A 23 mm cannon was used for the self-defense of the crew.
The Ekranoplan was later planned to be used as a flying hospital, but with the collapse of the Soviet Union, funding dried up, and the Ekranoplan is not in active service.
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Learn about the Ekranoplan in the video below, and SHARE if you are a fan of aviation innovation.
Resources Global Aircraft