Want to build an odd fighter?

If so, then you've come to the right place! Starting today, you can participate in my pedestal fighter challenge. This will be an exercise in aesthetic ability and outside of the box thinking. You are tasked with designing a unique aircraft in an already niche category; a sort of freak among freaks situation. Let's have a look at what's instore.

What is a "Pedestal fighter"?

The name, coined by LiquidFox01, refers to a low-wing aircraft where the fuselage is vertically separated. The Stallone, shown below, achieves this gap with a sort of keel.

There could be two or more of these pylons, if you like. As long as they keep some distance between the top of the wing and the bottom of the fuselage, you're golden.

What about the regulations?

There are few non-negotiable rules governing this challenge, and they are as follows:

1. The aircraft must be a successor. Don't send me any links, I won't follow them
2. The aircraft must be a pedestal fighter. Get some distance from that wing.
3. The aircraft must be a fighter. Multirole and strike aircraft count as well.
4. The aircraft must be original. Try to surprise yourself with your own creativity.

Don't worry, you will have some freedom with this challenge in the following areas:

1. Flight performance. The aircraft can vary in capability, just try and be modest.
2. XML. Any and all XML is allowed, except for infinite fuel. Again, keep it tame.
3. Weight and size. Size and empty/loaded weights should reflect capability.
4. Aesthetics. Try to make the aircraft visually appealing, I have an eye for looks.

What determines the score?

Score out of 100 will relate to the regulations, proportional to the rule's importance;

1. Pedestal fighter (does it fit the description?); out of 50 points
2. Role (is it a fighter?); out of 10 points
3. Originality (is it your own design?); out of 10 points
4. Flight performance (is it accurate to the size and layout?); out of 10 points
5. Weight and size (do they compliment each other?); out of 10 points
6. Aesthetics (is it objectively decent looking?); out of 10 points

What is the allotted timeline?

All aircraft must be submitted by first of March, 2022. The aircraft will be judged in the following week. Prizes will be delivered after judgement at the winners' requests.

What's in the winners' pool?

For many people looking to compete, this may be the "make or break". The top three designers will be awarded free commissioned drawings of their aircraft, done by myself. I know, this may seem arrogant, but you can participate in another challenge if you want upvotes. Anyway, the exact rewards for the top three are as follows:

1. Single day delivery, three of your original aircraft in formation.
2. Four day delivery, two of your original aircraft in formation.
3. Seven day delivery, one of your original aircraft... all alone.

All illustrations are done in full colour and will feature a background of your choice.

I'm excited to see your work!