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Martin Jetpack Closer To Takeoff In First Responder Applications

Posted by samzenpus on from the when-you-have-to-get-there-in-a-hurry dept.

Zothecula writes Last year's redesign of the long-awaited Martin Jetpack was accompanied by plans to begin commercial sales in 2014, starting with emergency response services and individual sales to follow thereafter. The release date for the first responder Jetpack has since been revised to 2016, a prediction bolstered by the fresh announcement of a partnership between Martin Aircraft Company and US company Avwatch to develop air-based, first responder solutions for the US Department of Homeland Security and Department of Defense.

3 of 55 comments (clear)

  1. Not a jet pack by erice · · Score: 4, Informative

    Despite appearances, there is no "jet" or "rocket" engine. It is a pair of ducted fans driven by a four cylinder gasoline engine.

    It isn't a pack either. The weight of the machine is borne by a large frame that the pilot steps onto.

    It is really an odd sort of helicopter. It looks really cool and it is much more compact than a normal helicopter but it is not a jet-pack.

    1. Re:Not a jet pack by The+Grim+Reefer · · Score: 3, Informative

      Sorry for replying to myself twice. But It was listed under the Engine section. It's a 200 HP 2 liter 2 stroke. and weighs 132 pounds. That would be one hell of a fun engine to have in a 1000 lb sports car. Or one for each wheel at that size. Except it needs to be overhauled every 100 hours of use. Probably less than that for ground use though.

  2. Oh lordy! by fustakrakich · · Score: 3, Informative

    You'd better listen to the noise. You definitely won't need a sireeen.

    --
    “He’s not deformed, he’s just drunk!”