Specification (Rev A)

Wave‑riding ground‑effect glider built to carry a 500 lb payload.

A cliff‑launchable WIG glider optimized to ride long‑period ocean swell using ground effect and wave‑slope soaring (WSS), with an optional 13 kW electric pusher for launch assistance and recovery.

Compare to what china is building Chinese Version

Quick Snapshot
Selected values from Rev A
WIG / WSS
Payload
500 lb (227 kg)
Baseline AUM
500 kg
GE cruise
22–28 m/s (43–54 kt)
Span / Area
11.0 m / 14.0 m²
Nominal height
0.5–0.7 m
Optional motor
13 kW (48–60 V)

Key highlights

These are the most “executive summary” numbers from the spec.

Performance

  • Stall: ~19.5 m/s (38 kt)
  • GE cruise: 22–28 m/s (43–54 kt)
  • L/D (GE trim): ~16–18 (est.)
  • Drag @ 25 m/s: ~278 N (≈6.9 kW eq.)
  • Turns (GE): bank ≤ 12° nominal

Geometry

  • Span: 11.00 m
  • Wing area: 14.00 m²
  • Aspect ratio: 8.64
  • Fuselage length: ~6.20 m
  • Payload bay: 2.0 × 0.9 × 0.9 m

Systems & Ops

  • Optional power: 13 kW electric pusher
  • Height hold: 24 GHz radar altimeter (0–5 m)
  • Sea state (WSS): clean swell 1.5–3.0 m; 12–18 s
  • Cliff launch: ~150 ft (45.7 m) over clear water
  • Loads: +3.5 / −1.5 g limit
Want the complete spec?

Download the PDF for the full sections on stability/control, structures, electrical package, avionics, and maintenance.

Download Specs (PDF)

Download

Get the full “Pelican‑500 Cliff‑Launch Ekranoplan (WIG) Glider — Specification (Rev A)” PDF.

Pelican‑500_Specification_RevA.pdf
Loading size…PDF