User:Belfras/SandboxMilitary1
| VH-800 Centaur | |
|---|---|
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| Role | Transport aircraft |
| Manufacturer | Volarion Skylines (Civilian variants) Volarion Defence Systems (Military variants) |
| Designer | Volarion Industries |
| First flight | 5 April 1998 |
| Introduction | 2000 |
| Status | In service |
The VoloHaul 800 Centaur is a large, multi-role tactical and strategic airlifter developed by Volarion Industries to fulfill a variety of military, humanitarian, and commercial logistics needs. Launched in the late 2000s, the Centaur is designed for versatile operations across diverse environments, from combat zones to disaster-stricken regions. Combining cutting-edge technology with an ability to operate in challenging conditions, it has quickly become a staple for military forces and international relief organizations worldwide. The VoloHaul 800 is noted for its powerful performance, impressive payload capacity, and adaptability to various mission types, including troop transport, equipment delivery, and airlift support.
The design of the VH-800 Centaur features a high-wing configuration with four turboprop engines, providing efficient fuel consumption and increased lift capacity, making it ideal for carrying heavy payloads over long distances. The aircraft's advanced fly-by-wire system enhances flight control, giving it superior stability and maneuverability. The Centaur's short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities allow it to operate from austere, unprepared airstrips, expanding its versatility and ensuring operational success in remote locations. The aircraft can carry up to 47 tons of cargo, including oversized military equipment, vehicles, and humanitarian supplies, and can be configured for multiple mission types depending on operational needs.
In military applications, the Centaur serves as an essential tool for rapid deployment of troops and equipment. Its rear-loading ramp allows for swift cargo loading and unloading, facilitating quick-turnaround times and improving the efficiency of logistics operations. The Centaur also boasts defensive features such as infrared countermeasures and advanced electronic warfare systems, ensuring its survivability in high-risk environments. The aircraft is used for a variety of missions, including aerial resupply, airborne early warning and control (AEW&C), and search and rescue operations.
In addition to its military capabilities, the Centaur has proven invaluable for humanitarian missions. Its ability to transport critical supplies to remote regions makes it a vital asset for disaster response teams, while its ability to land on short, unpaved airstrips allows for efficient operations in challenging terrain. The VoloHaul 800's multi-role versatility ensures that it can meet the demands of both government and commercial clients, offering a level of flexibility and reliability rarely seen in large cargo aircraft.
Design and development
Variants
- VH-200C
- Civilian Variant, capacity of 70 passengers, five pallets or nine tons of cargo.
- VH-200M
- Military transport version, capacity for 70 troops, 50 paratroops, 36 stretchers, five 2.24 x 2.74 m pallets, or three light vehicles.
- VH-200M AEW
- Airborne early warning and control variant with a 360-degree radar dome. AESA-radar technology has been included with integrated IFF system. This version incorporates a rotating radome mounted on top of the fuselage, housing a multi-mode radar capable of tracking air and surface targets over a wide range. The aircraft is also equipped with secure communication systems for real-time data sharing with ground command centers and allied aircraft. The 200M AEW is used for airspace surveillance, command and control, and battle management roles in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.
- VH-200M MP
- Maritime patrol aircraft/Anti-submarine warfare. Equipped with a Poseidon Tactical Surveillance Suite, the 200M AEW features advanced radar systems, a magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) boom, and sonobuoy launchers to detect and track underwater threats. Additionally, the aircraft is armed with six underwing hardpoints for torpedoes, depth charges, and anti-ship missiles. Its extended endurance and range make it suitable for long-duration patrols over oceanic and coastal regions. The interior includes workstations for mission specialists, data analysts, and weapons operators.
- VH-200M EW
- Dedicated Signals intelligence variant
Specifications
- Crew: 3 (Pilot, co-pilot, loadmaster)
- Capacity:
- Cargo: Up to 9 tons (20,000 lbs)
- Passengers: 50-60 in passenger configuration, 70 in military configuration
- Medical evacuation: 36 stretches plus medical personnel
- Length: 24.50 m (80 ft)
- Wing span: 29.2 m (96 ft)
- Height: 8.7 m (29 ft)
- Cargo hold dimensions:
- Length: 12.7 m (42 ft)
- Width: 3.2 m (10 ft)
- Height: 2.4 m (7 ft 10 in)
- Engine Type: 2 x Valtrex VT-215 Turboprop
- Engine Power: 4,500 shp (3,356 kW)
Performance
- Cruising Speed: 255 kn (472 km/h; 293 mph)
- Ferry Range: 5,800 km (3,604 mi)
- Range with 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) payload: 5,250 km (3,262 mi)
- Range with 6,000 kg (13,228 lb) payload: 4,004 km (2,488 mi)
- Service Ceiling: 8,015 m (26,296 ft)
- Absolute Ceiling: 9,145 m (30,003 ft)
- Take-off run: 65 m (213 ft) Sea level, ISA
- Landing run: 320 m (1,050 ft) Sea level, ISA
- Hardpoints: six (optional: three under each wing)
- Hardpoint capacity: inboard pylons 800 kg (1,764 lb); centre pylons 500 kg (1,102 lb); outboard pylons 300 kg (661 lb)