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Updraft

26.9k Sunnyskies  8.4 years ago

Okay, how do I even begin trying to describe how this plane is used? Updraft is primarily a testbed for an idea I had. The central engine rotates using the trim slider, and has several functions including VTOL, STOL, pitch trim, supermaneuvering, airbraking, and thrust reversal. It is very difficult to learn how to correctly use the pitching engine, but through extensive testing, I have determined that it is very possible to fly it effectively. The inbuilt VTOL engines serve only two purposes; powering the RCNs, and providing a thrust boost. Use AG7 to trigger thrust boost, but use it sparingly, as it drains fuel quickly. When using the engine to slow your landing roll, trim it so the engine points forward and up, then apply maximum throttle. This is a very effective thrust reverser, and can be applied to allow taxiing in reverse. RCNs are bound to AG8. Make sure to deactivate them once in level flight. In level flight, the engine can be tilted slightly to trim out your pitch very effectively. Note that the trim settings for boost-on differ from boost-off. VTOL should be done VERY carefully. Angle the engine down and slightly back, then throttle up to 65%. Adjust trim as you rise to correct pitch drift. Use the RCNs to control your attitude, then once sufficient height has been gained, angle engine back while advancing throttle. It will take a lot of practice to get a handle on it. In addition to being a testbed, the craft is also a fighter, and is armed with missiles and a minigun. AGs 1-3 drop individual pairs of missile racks.

General Characteristics

  • Created On Windows
  • Wingspan 41.2ft (12.6m)
  • Length 35.3ft (10.8m)
  • Height 12.2ft (3.7m)
  • Empty Weight 17,295lbs (7,845kg)
  • Loaded Weight 20,161lbs (9,144kg)

Performance

  • Power/Weight Ratio 3.009
  • Wing Loading 59.6lbs/ft2 (290.9kg/m2)
  • Wing Area 338.4ft2 (31.4m2)
  • Drag Points 4854

Parts

  • Number of Parts 121
  • Control Surfaces 4
  • Performance Cost 637
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    26.9k Sunnyskies

    @SHCow I armed it primarily for air-to-air, but yes. The possibilities with this plane are numerous. Every time I play with it, I invent some crazy new maneuver. I doubt anyone could unlock its full potential. Myself included.

    8.4 years ago
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    26.9k Sunnyskies

    @Treadmill103 @TheRedStormer Thank you!

    8.4 years ago
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    Awesome! If you are going to get anything 3D printed it should be this!

    8.4 years ago
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    26.9k Sunnyskies

    @BogdanX @JoddyFubuki788 Thanks. Glad you liked it.

    8.4 years ago
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    TOTALLY WORTH IT for test beds! Anyways, have you checked my planes? It's now equipped with VTOL function flaps for my new P-51B

    8.4 years ago