The AEG helicopter was an unusual German aircraft project, intended to create a portable observation post in the form of a tethered helicopter. It achieved lift by use of two
contra-rotating rotors powered by an electric motor that was supplied with power from the ground. The device could be folded for transportation on the back of a truck. An observer's cabin was suspended underneath the rotor assembly, and could be blown clear by an explosive charge in case of emergency. Development commenced in
1933
Events
January
* January 11 – Sir Charles Kingsford Smith makes the first commercial flight between Australia and New Zealand.
* January 17 – The United States Congress votes in favour of Philippines independence, against the wis ...
, but it was never put into service by the military.
Also, the system was tested to carry an up to 800 m high vlf-antenna for communication to submerged submarines. The 3 power feeder cables doubled as radiators for frequencies from 15 to 60 kHz.
Specifications (AEG helicopter)
See also
References
Bibliography
*Nowarra, Heinz J.. ''Die Deutsche Luftrüstung 1933-1945 - Vol.1 - AEG-Dornier''. Bernard & Graefe Verlag. 1993. Koblenz. (Gesamtwerk), (Band 1)
*Helmut Maier. ''Rüstungsforschung im Nationalsozialismus: Organisation, Mobilisierung und Entgrenzung der Technikwissenschaften''. Wallstein Verlag. 2002. Page 134.
{{AEG aircraft
Helicopter
1930s German military reconnaissance aircraft
Military helicopters
1930s German helicopters
Abandoned military aircraft projects of Germany
Electric helicopters