Multi-Modal Vehicle Concept [Sandia National Laboratories]

[Grey Havoc]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OdbKhtWMueg

http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2013/11/transformer-drone/​

 

[cluttonfred]

Neat, it would be interesting to learn if any of this be developed furthers than a snazzy video. Were there tow lines between the prop-driven UAV and what appeared to be gliders? Why the flippers on the waterborne stage instead of a propeller? What does the waterborne stage gain vs. other delivery scenarios?

 

[Arjen]

Why the flippers on the waterborne stage instead of a propeller?

Probably because the flippers are more efficient and less noisy than a conventional propellor.

MARIN (Maritime Research Institute Netherlands), among others, has been testing oscillating foils for years now.
http://www.marin.nl/web/News/News-items/Ofoil-propulsion-concept-successfully-tested.htm