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Development & Construction

Derived from the Skate, a project for a 50-seat amphibious passenger ferry, Gus is now employed extensively by the Soviet Marine Infantry. Increasing numbers are employed in Warsaw Pact military exercises in the Baltic and further craft of this type are believed to be employed on the major rivers bordering with China. During 1978 it was announced that the Soviet Navy’s latest and largest amphibious landing ship, the Ivan Rogov, is capable of carrying three amphibious assault ACVs of the Gus type. Each of these craft can carry a fully-armed platoon on to a landing beach at speeds of up to 92 km/h (57mph). About thirty five are in service.
Motive power is provided by three 780hp TVD 10 marine gas turbines mounted aft. Two drive three-bladed variable and reversible-pitch propellers for thrust and the third drives an axial lift fan. Cushion air is drawn through a raised intake aft of the cabin superstructure.
Craft direction is controlled by differential propeller pitch, twin aerodynamic rudders and forward and aft puff ports. Elevators provide pitch trim at cruising speed.
Hull and superstructure are in conventional corrosion-resistant marine light alloy. Basic structure comprises a central load-carrying platform, which incorporates buoyancy tanks and outer sections to support the side ducts and skirt. The cabin, fuel tanks, lift fan bay, engines and tail unit are mounted on the platform.
Up to 25 troops are accommodated in an air-conditioned cabin. Commander and navigator are seated in a raised wheelhouse.

Power Plant

Three 780hp marinised gas turbines

Dimensions

Length overall power on: 21.33m (69ft 11½in)
Beam overall power on: 7.3m (23ft 11½in)
Height to top of fin: 6.6m (21ft 8in)

Weights

Normal Operating weight: 27 tons

Performance

Cruising speed: 72.5mph (57.5km/h)
Normal Cruising range: 230 miles (370km)

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