KerbalX

Details

• Type: SPH
• Class: aircraft
• Part Count: 120
• Pure Stock

Mods

• Squad (stock)

Description

Abt:release 1:Whiplash 2:ramp 3:ladder 4:bay 5:drop rover Vr:40 Vs:30
[NO ladder]

A stock fuel transporter called Manta++. Built with 120 of the finest parts, its root part is mk3Cockpit.Shuttle.

Manta++ is an update of Manta, an earlier collaboration between myself and FleshJeb.

Manta++ features a double-length cargo bay, holding a Gryphon III fuel truck, and allowing easy reloading of same, as shown in the video below. As a bonus, an Invader rover is tucked into the tail cargo ramp. (Gryphon III may be jettisoned aloft or while parked on the ground. Highly recommend that the Invader is deployed on the ground and that command is switched directly to it (e.g. via Haystack) or a save is done, as KSP has trouble with switching from afar to a vehicle located on a ramp.)

Manta++ is intended to be a mobile fuel dump! With Manta gear retracted, Gryphon connects to it with one claw, making the other end claws available for refueling rovers (HORZ) or planes (VERT). Alternatively, Manta++ may be used simply to refuel bases.

Rotate at 40m/s; stall at 30. Manta++ requires a speed run at 6km. Then climb to 19km to cruise at 1,215 m/s for a draw of 1.68 kals.

A large debt of gratitude to FleshJeb for his infallible advice, assistance and expertise on this project.

NOTICE: this aircraft has just been overhauled/rebuilt by FleshJeb. Performance numbers are now 1342 m/s @ 21km for 0.96 k/s. With 6 engines, Manta++ is significantly quicker in reaching cruise. Recommend a slower climb from 19km to 21, but an earlier speed run is no longer necessary. Pilots will also notice a marked improvement in handling/responsivity. My applause/kudos to Fleshjeb.

Built in the SPH in KSP version 1.6.1.