Two Amphibious Aircraft Programs on Drawing Boards.

• Author: Magnuson, Stew
• Position: NEWS BRIEFS

TAMPA, Florida--Defeating the "tyranny of distance" in the Indo-Pacific--with vast oceans and seas to traverse--is a key concern among U.S. military leaders.

There are now two amphibious airlift programs in their early stages that might help move troops and supplies rapidly as the Defense Department continues its strategic shift to the region.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency recently kicked off its Liberty Lifter project, with a goal of flying a long-range, "low-cost X-plane capable of seaborne strategic and tactical lift," the agency said in a press release.

"The new vehicle concept seeks to expand upon existing cargo aircraft by proving revolutionary heavy air lift abilities from the sea," the agency said.

The envisioned plane will combine fast and flexible strategic lift of large, heavy loads with the ability to take off and land in water. Its structure will enable both highly controlled flight close to turbulent water surfaces and sustained flight at mid-altitudes. In addition, the plane will be built with a low-cost design and construction philosophy, the agency said.

"This first phase of the Liberty Lifter program will define the unique seaplane's range, payloads and other parameters," said Alexander Walan, a program manager in DARPA's tactical technology office.

DARPA sees several challenges. First, the aircraft will have to operate in turbulent sea states, including take off and landings, carrying heavy loads. It also wants the aircraft to...