Carf-Models Ultra Lightning Instruction Manual page 7

The 'Lightning' was conceived early in 2004, and almost 1 year was taken for careful design,
development and testing before the full production commenced. The original concept was to
design a no-compromise highly-prefabricated 'Giant Scale' sport jet for precision aerobatics, with
3D capability, for the 15 - 16 kg (30 - 38Lbs) thrust range of turbines.
In addition it had as near to 'ARTF' as possible, very quick to assemble on the field, modular for
easy shipping and transport, be grass and short field capable, have easy access to all the impor-
tant systems for maintenance ... and look absolutely stunning. We have realised our concept -
and them some more!
After the first test flights of the prototype, made by Andreas Gietz, he stated that the only limit-
ing factor with this plane was the pilot! Certainly, in the right hands, it is capable of completing a
full 'Unlimited TOC' routine .... and we look forward to seeing one of the top aerobatic pilots run
thru' their schedule with this plane.
We are happy to say that the Lightning exceeds even our high expectations and original con-
cept. It flies aerobatics extremely smoothly - really flying through all the manoeuvres - rather than
'skidding' around them as most jets do. With medium throws it's really easy to fly, and gives great
confidence. With full control throws it can perform an 'unlimited' schedule in a very small 'box' -
really surprising for a jet of this size. Flying performance like this has never been seen before for
a large scale jet.
We have incorporated the same technology and
hi-tech materials as used in our world-famous
aerobatic planes, like the Yak55SP, Pitts S12
and SuperXtra. The Lighting features an incred-
ibly strong, and torsionally stiff, structure com-
bining kevlar and carbon-fibre with traditional
lightweight balsa and plywood structures, all
mechanically keyed together and aligned in the
moulds before joining to bring you the best bal-
ance of strength and weight. Even the wing pro-
files are based on our aerobatic planes proven
sections. The control surfaces are large and
extremely powerful, giving you that extra confi-
dence even at very slow speeds and in hi-alpha
manoeuvres.
All the main on-board systems, including the
retractable landing gear, fuel system and engine
mount and ducting, were fully integrated with the
structural design of the aircraft at the initial
design stage. It can be very fast for such a large
model, but with it's amazingly wide speed range
you won't feel worried during short and steep
approaches at high angles of attack, when it
feels absolutely rock-solid.
About the 'Lightning'
7
Wings, Stabs and Vertical Fin are all manufac-
tured with 'Total Area Vacuum Sandwich'
technology - with the internal structure jig-
aligned in the moulds before joining.
Extensive carbonfibre and kevlar composites
are used in strategic positions.