Date of Award

4-23-1971

Degree Type

Major Paper

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Marine Affairs

Abstract

Problems encountered during development of the hydrofoil ship have restricted exploitation of its unique characteristics in an open ocean environment. An examination of pertinent physical and technical constraints is undertaken to assess their impact upon the future. The focus of this examination is centered upon the evolution of the fully submerged foil type ship during the past decade with emphasis upon the commitment directed toward its development by the United States Government. The developmental process induced by this commitment is found to be impeded by physical and technical factors, but organizational and traditional constraints are also instrumental in retarding progress. Recent successes indicate a reversal of past trends and suggest that the ocean going hydrofoil ship may soon add another dimension to surface water-borne transportation.

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