Abstract

Abstract: Wing-In-Ground Effect (WIG) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) represent a unique convergence of aerodynamic principles and unmanned systems technology, offering promising solutions for maritime operations. This paper explores the historical development, theoretical foundations, and potential applications of WIG UAVs. The phenomenon of ground effect, which enhances lift and reduces drag when flying close to water surfaces, has been observed since the early 20th century. Soviet engineer Rostislav Alexeyev's pioneering work on the Lun-class ekranoplan in the 1960s demonstrated the viability of WIG technology for military logistics. Advancements in materials science, propulsion systems, and computer-aided design have further refined WIG vehicle performance. The integration of autonomous capabilities has expanded the operational scope of WIG UAVs, enabling missions in challenging maritime environments. The aerodynamic investigation of WIG vehicles reveals the complex interplay between the vehicle's wings and the water surface, leading to enhanced lift-to-drag ratios and improved efficiency. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel experiments have provided valuable insights into the optimization of WIG UAV designs. The potential applications of WIG UAVs span maritime surveillance, coastal patrolling, search and rescue operations, and cargo transportation. Their ability to collaborate with other unmanned systems, such as aerial drones and surface vessels, enhances overall mission effectiveness. As the demand for sophisticated maritime capabilities grows, the development of WIG UAVs presents a promising frontier for innovation, offering unique solutions to address evolving challenges in maritime security and operational effectiveness

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