| 摘要 |
Two groups of tension lines depending from the forward and aft portions of an airship are each connected to a separate vertically oriented elongate strut. The struts are dimensioned to extend through and below surface waves of a body of water. Optionally, electric thruster/generator units are mounted in pods on the bottom of the struts to either propel the airship or act as generators while drifting. Laterally reaching hydrofoils extend from the pods and either work to reduce drag or ensure responsive operation. The combination of the tension lines, struts, thruster/generator units and hydrofoils permits precise maneuvering at the surface for off-loading and on-loading at sea, allows for long endurance and range and gives a capability for operating as a quiet platform.
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