Aeros Target
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1995 |
| Headquarters | Kyiv , Ukraine |
| Products | Hang gliders (Target series) |
The Aeros Target series consists of Ukrainian high-wing hang gliders available in both single-seat and two-seat configurations. Produced by the Kyiv-based company Aeros, the model was first launched in 1995. As of 2012, the two-seat Target 21 Tandem variant continued to be manufactured.
Design and development
Designed primarily as an entry-level hang glider for training and recreational use, the Target range offers forgiving flight characteristics suitable for beginners. The British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA) granted certification to the design in 1995. Over the years, the series underwent various improvements, with the Target 21 Tandem remaining the sole model still produced by 2012.
An example from the line, the 2003 Target 162, features a frame assembled from bolted aluminium tubing and a single-surface wing covered in Dacron sailcloth. The wing structure is supported by cables attached to a kingpost. Control is achieved through weight-shift via an "A" frame control bar. This model has a wingspan of 9.6 metres, a wing area of 16.2 square metres, a nose angle of 120°, and an aspect ratio of 5.7:1. It accommodates pilots weighing between 60 and 100 kilograms. In 2003, the Target 162 was priced at £1790.
Eventually, Aeros replaced the single-seat Target models with the Aeros Fox in their product lineup.
Variants
- Target 13
- This version, featuring a smaller wing area, was first released in 1995 and holds certification from the BHPA.
- Target 16
- Introduced in 1995 with a larger wing area, this model was later updated in 2007 to lower its empty weight to 23.5 kg (52 lb) and is BHPA certified.
- Target 132
- Around 2003, this single-seat variant was developed with a wingspan of 8.65 m (28.4 ft), wing surface area of 13.4 m2 (144 sq ft), a nose angle measuring 118°, and an aspect ratio of 5.6:1. It accommodates pilots with a hook-in weight ranging from 45 to 65 kg (99 to 143 lb) and is certified by the BHPA.
- Target 162
- Also dating from approximately 2003, this single-seat model features a wing span of 9.6 m (31.5 ft), wing area of 16.2 m2 (174 sq ft), a nose angle of 120°, and an aspect ratio of 5.7:1. It supports pilot hook-in weights between 60 to 100 kg (132 to 220 lb) and carries BHPA certification.
- Target 192 Bi
- This two-seater was launched in 1999, sporting a wingspan of 10.5 m (34.4 ft), wing area totaling 19.0 m2 (205 sq ft), a nose angle of 120°, and an aspect ratio of 5.7:1. The minimum pilot hook-in weight for this model is 85 kg (187 lb).
- Target 21 Tandem
- Introduced in 2006 and BHPA certified by 2007, this two-place model remained in production as of 2012. Constructed using 7075-T6 aluminium tubing, it offers an optional fixed wheeled landing gear equipped with bungee suspension.