Aircraft Description - Second Generation Production

Although the specifications of the Stratos G2 production version will not be known until a thorough vetting of the prototype, it is anticipated that the dimensions and operating characteristics will be very similar, since the original prototype successfully logged over 70 flight hours.

The production version will probably have a lower empty weight, and corresponding higher effective load, because it is likely that the parts for the production version will be lighter. Many parts hand-built during the prototype phase will be mass-produced using more sophisticated manufacturing techniques like vacuum-bag forming and autoclave curing.

Also, refinements to structures, fittings and assemblies which are not practical for a hand-built prototype can be made economically to parts with volume production runs.

The prototype SG2 will be sanded and painted. For the production SG2, it is likely that the fuselage, wings and duct will be produced in a mold, resulting in a hard, shiny gel-coat finish that does not require sanding and painting. Sanding and painting can consume hundreds of hours of time, require considerable expertise, and add dozens of pounds of extra weight when considering feather-fill, primer and a final coat of lacquer or urethane.