This beast was designed by the Italian expatriate Robert Bartini to hunt Polaris subs. Sometimes erroneously called an “Ekranoplan”, the VVA-14 was in fact a Type C WIG “Ekranolyot”. Bartini was the one who coined the latter term: a vehicle capable of flight not only in ground effect but also at considerable altitude over ground or water. Curiously, Bartini didn’t use the term “Ekranolyot” when referring to his bold creature. Daring in its conception, the original design incorporated inflatable pontoons and a battery of 12 lift engines. First flown in Sept. 1972, the VVA-14 was still a work in progress when its progenitor died two years later. His design died soon after; its sad derelict remains can be seen at the Monino Museum.
The mutant creature as seen by artist Ronald Wong.
Aviation Rapture 
Even the remains look impressive.
While I still think these strange creatures are nothing more then a dead end, I am still captivated by them.
As am I.