The Kestrel is a compact gunship intended for close air support. It's unique design makes it versatile and easily recognizable, combining the convenience of a helicopter and an airplane. With its ability to hover in place, it can act as an manned airborne sentry gun.

Controls:

Main Lift Fan: Throttle

Horizontal flight engines: VTOL Slider + AG1

Machine Guns: Space

Pylons: AG 2-7

Flight:

in order to takeoff, bring the throttle to between 80-100% until the craft lifts off. A gentle hover can be attained in the low 80% range, through this may change depending on the ordinance equipped. At this point, the craft controls like a helicopter. Once horizontal flight is desired, activate AG-1. This will enable the roll on the gyroscope and arm the horizontal engines. To start the horizontal engines, simply bring the VTOL Slider up and treat it as a normal throttle. The craft now functions as a conventional airplane. To turn them off, first bring the slider to below half, then deactivate AG-1. This will return the craft to helicopter-like controls.

Precautions:

Warning against deactivating AG-8, even during horizontal flight. It keeps the craft upright as there are hardly any actual lifting surfaces.

NEVER bank into a turn greater than 50 degrees unless you're a daredevil. I mean, really, the lifting fan only blows in one direction =)

Side Notes:

OH MAN was this thing fun to built. It's Also my most experimental and creative craft yet. =D