Use of ground effect to provide an effectively infinite aspect ratio to an aerodynamically designed surface effect ship is explained, and integration of improved translational characteristics with GEM jet hovering is discussed. A suspension system for the ship's economical operation over wave surfaces is outlined, and results of test craft aspects of the 100 ton ship are presented. The economic potential of surface effect ships, their possible use as cargo and passenger carriers, and their value as a stimulus to American maritime trade are pointed out. The history of the present program of research and development is also reviewed.
