Takeoff without a Runway: Russia Finds a Way to Convert a Regular Airplane

In Russia, a kit has been developed and patented for converting a light production aircraft into a hybrid aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). The unexpected solution is designed for aircraft with a high wing, struts, and a front steering strut.

The design allows for vertical takeoff, landing, and low-speed maneuvering without deep modification of the airframe and control systems, according to the authors of the idea.

The kit includes two pylons that are attached to the upper surface of the wing in the area of the spars and strut nodes. Each pylon houses four propeller groups with electric motors and coaxial counter-rotating propellers that create vertical lift.

The attachment is made through an assembly unit made of sheet metal with anti-vibration dampers, which reduces the load on the wing's power frame.

During vertical takeoff and landing, the lifting propellers are powered by a battery designed for 8-10 minutes of flight. After gaining altitude, the aircraft's standard engine is connected, which provides horizontal flight.

The lifting propellers are then braked in regenerative mode, fixed along the axis of the aircraft, and reduce drag. In cruise mode, the battery is recharged from the generator.

It should be noted that the development is focused specifically on retrofitting existing aircraft, rather than creating a new platform "from scratch."

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