Combatpigg,

I agree that the ultimate combat plane has not been designed. The idea with SSC was to keep the speed down, partially by making them heavy. This was not the best solution since all that mass hits hard either in a midair or an unscheduled landing. Reducing the minimum weight would only increase speed which also increases impact forces and damage.

I have done some slope soaring at Carters Lake and we fly Zagi THL and Slinger type wings there. These weigh about 12 ounces and they are usually undamaged from the frequent collisions there. I think the low mass and no prop combined with relatively low speeds get the credit for the lack of damage.

I would think a 1/2a powered wing of this size and weight would be pretty durable.

Are you familiar with the Tufflight planes? They are all EPP foam but they are too heavy, flexy, and fast to survive but they do have a good engine mount system. I am thinking of trying to mount my .061 to the nose of my Zagi with a similar mount. What would you think of that? I think it could be done at about 12-14 ounces.

Wiggy