Joint U.S.-Canadian Aviation Projects and UFO Sighting Reports, 1954-1955

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aircraft and the ground which eliminates the possibility of severe impact on landing. Tests have shown that the jet lift is increased several times over that of a flat disc near the ground. Advantages of such a technique are as follows:

a. It is safer and more acceptable to pilots.

b. The gyroscopic plane is parallel with the ground.

c. It improves the use of the aircraft in the transport category.

(Slide 5). In general, the proposed aircraft consists of a very large radial flow gas turbine engine disposed between two concentric rings. It is estimated that the engine will produce nearly 50,000 lbs. Sea Level Static Thrust. Depending on the final design and balance the circular plan form may need to be modified to accommodate trim flaps. The air intakes are also circular in plan, the skins extending across the central part of the plane. The pilot, fuel and disposable loads are contained in the central compartment which is well insulated against aerodynamic heating by the fuel. The aircraft is shown in the take-off configuration with both air intakes closed and relieving doors on the top intake open all the way around. This arrangement permits the air to sink in and over into the intake annulus, then radially outwards to the jet exhausts which are normal to the surface around the whole periphery; about 15 inches from the edge.

(Slide 6) Typical streamlines of the airflow through the aircraft are shown in this slide which represents any section through the circular form of the aircraft. This aircraft will have neither an oil system nor a hydraulic system, inasmuch as the engine is air lubricated and there is no retractible under carriage nor hydraulic operated controls employed. The control equipment in the cockpit will be much simpler. Normal flight and navigational instruments and equipment will be installed in the aircraft. A simplified form of ejector seat is fitted, as high ejection velocities are not considered necessary for this tailless aircraft.

Now for a few general operational characteristics. The first model to be tested is expected to be able to have speeds up to Mach. 2.5, fly at altitudes up to 85,000 feet, and have a range of 1500 n.m. (one way). A later model with a diameter of 100 ft. and configured as a bomber, recon, or transport version is expected to have speeds up to Mach. 3.5 and ranges sufficient for intercontinental operations. Time to climb from the ground to 65,000 feet would be about 2 minutes.

Let us now review briefly what we have in the offing. We have an aircraft capable of taking off and landing vertically climbing to altitude in an exceedingly short period of time, and able to cruise at very high speeds. In addition, it can hover, and has great lifting capabilities. And what does this mean? No requirements for long runways of concrete or other hard surface. No need for the new type aircraft carriers. Any naval vessel of sufficient size can carry an aircraft of this type. We have here an aircraft capable of great maneuverability and high altitudes. What would such capabilities mean to an invasion force. And how about its uses for pursuit, reconnaissance, ambulance, bomber, or transport. The artist conception of its use with a submarine is a particularly deadly combination. The installation of armament

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