Evolution of hovercraft technology
The 1980s brought advancements in materials, propulsion, and control systems, making hovercraft more efficient and powerful.
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Military expansion of hovercraft
Hovercraft gained traction in military operations, with the Russian Zubr-class becoming the largest, capable of carrying tanks and troops.
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Hovercraft in the Vietnam War
The US used hovercraft for river patrols in Vietnam, but their vulnerability to enemy fire led to their withdrawal.
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Hovercraft in Arctic & polar research
Hovercraft are used in Arctic exploration, ice-breaking, and polar research due to their ability to navigate extreme conditions.
Image source: By Official Coast Guard photo by PA2 Zac Crawford. - http://www.dvidshub.net/image/197945/coast-guard-hosts-international-exercise, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org
Hybrid propulsion & green technology
The 2000s saw hybrid hovercraft integrating electric engines for better efficiency and reduced emissions.
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Countries leading in hovercraft use
The US, Russia, China, the UK, and France have the most military and civilian hovercraft fleets.
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India’s growing hovercraft fleet
India is expanding its hovercraft operations for coastal defense and is in talks for next-gen designs with the UK.
Image source: By Prime Minister's Office (GODL-India), GODL-India, https://commons.wikimedia.org
Hovercraft in anti-smuggling operations
Countries like India and Iran use hovercraft to patrol coasts and combat smuggling activities.
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Civilian & commercial uses of hovercraft
From passenger transport to tourism, hovercraft offer unique advantages in challenging terrains.
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Hovercraft in search & rescue missions
Hovercraft play a vital role in disaster relief, reaching flooded and inaccessible areas quickly.
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The lasting legacy of hovercraft
Hovercraft remain essential for specific applications despite more economical transport alternatives.
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Future of hovercraft: Automation & AI
The development of autonomous hovercraft for surveillance, reconnaissance, and transport is underway.
Image source: generated by AI tool
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Image source: Иерей Максим МассалитинCamera location61° 24′ 44.98″ N, 31° 05′ 54.05″ E View this and other nearby images on: OpenStreetMap 61.412494; 31.098347, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons