Efficiency starts with weight, and weight is defined by materials. A light ekranoplano uses a hybrid composite structure where each material works where it adds the most.
Why composites and not metal
Composite materials offer an excellent strength-to-weight ratio: structural strength at minimal weight. Less weight means less power needed and more efficiency.
Foam core
Provides volume, flotation and the hull's aerodynamic geometry at minimal weight. It also gives permanent buoyancy: key so the vehicle won't sink.
Fiberglass
Protects the surface and provides general strength across the structure. It is the versatile, economical working layer.
Carbon fiber
Reinforces the highest structural-load zones, where maximum stiffness is needed at the lowest possible weight.
Kevlar
Adds extra resistance in the most demanding zones. It is the same type of material used in high-tenacity applications.
Epoxy resin
Integrates all the composites and improves overall rigidity, bonding the layers into a solid structure.
The result
A light, strong, unsinkable structure. Discover why that translates into efficiency benefits.