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Hovercraft
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Vehicle that rides on a cushion of high-pressure air, free from all contact with the surface beneath, invented by English engineer Christopher Cockerell in 1959. Hovercraft need a smooth terrain when operating overland and are best adapted to use on waterways. They are useful in places where harbours have not been established.
Large hovercraft (SR-N4) operated a swift car-ferry service across the English Channel 1966–2000, taking only about 35 minutes between Dover and Calais. They were fitted with a flexible ‘skirt’ that helps maintain the air cushion.
A military version made of fibreglass, the M-10, is tough manoeuvrable, and less noisy.
© Research Machines plc 2008. All rights reserved. Helicon Publishing is a division of Research Machines plc.
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