Manufacturer: Scaled Composites

Model: 336

Name: Gemini 2

Type: High-altitude observation

Date:

Status: Operational

Country: United States of America

Service: U.S. Coast Guard

Designation: HO-13A Gemini

The Scaled Composites Model 336 Gemini was conceived as a high altitude long-range surveillance platform (HALSP) and is derived from the famous Model 311 Capricorn, better known as the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer in which Steve Fossett set a world endurance record.

Used by the U.S. Coast Guard as the HO-13A, the Gemini was specifically developed by Scaled as a unique solution to the service's need for a high-flying surveillance platform that can fly unrefueled for two days along the coasts of the United States and monitor every single ship on the surface in real time. As opposed to the existing ELINT or AWACS platforms, the HALSP is not only cheaper to operate, but it can monitor very small ships or wooden embarkations that would not be detected otherwise thanks to an array of infrared cameras and movement detectors.

• Oh yes!   Now THAT is an aeroplane after my own heart for sure. Reminiscent of a twin boom Ryan Compass Cope R. It's eminently modellable too, 2 x A Model Virgin Atlantic Global Flyers would do the job. (and I have one in The Loft too............ ) Actually you might get away with just the one, plus the odd bits and pieces of course. (PR19_Kit)
• BRAVO!!!!!!!!!! (jorel62)
• The HO-13A is good! (redstar72)
• Wow ! Making the Global Flyer simply the leader of a delicious family, I love that. Together with the original, that makes a great family, thanks designer artist... and with a so perfect result, like "photographic proof of true existence"... (Tophe)