P-4 Zemlyan Swan
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| Type: | Maritime patrol aircraft |
| Manufacturer: |  Kalavia Fixed-Wing Works (Gravelbottom)
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| Operator |  Benacia Command
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| Quantity | 1x prototype (1731 AN) |
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| Range | 8,000km |
| Maximum Speed | 720km/h |
| Altitude Ceiling | 11,000m |
| Minimum Required Runway | 2,000m |
| Maximum Payload Weight | 10 tonnes |
| Armament | |
The P-4 Zemlyan Swan was a prototype long-range maritime patrol aircraft developed by Kalavia Fixed-Wing Works in Gravelbottom, Kalgachia for the Benacian Union Defence Force. It was commissioned by Benacia Command on 20.V.1728 AN with the intent of creating a capable long-range maritime reconnaissance and patrol platform.
Origins and Requirements
In the years following the Second Elwynnese Civil War, the newly established Benacian Union leadership recognised the need for a specialised long-range maritime patrol aircraft. Their territory spanned vast coastlines, and they required an effective means of conducting maritime surveillance, patrol, and strike missions. Existing aircraft in Benacian service lacked the range, payload capacity, and specialised sensors for this role.
Benacia Command issued specifications calling for an aircraft with:
- Range of at least 8,000 km
- Maximum speed of 720 km/h
- Altitude ceiling of 11,000 m
- Minimum 2,000 m runway take-off requirement
- 10 tonne payload capacity for sensors, weapons, etc.
Design and Development
The contract was awarded to Kalavia Fixed-Wing Works, a prominent aerospace firm based in Gravelbottom, Kalgachia. Kalavia had previously developed the Floret turboprop-powered airliner and had expertise in long-range aircraft design. They were given a tight deadline of just three years to deliver a flyable prototype.
Kalavia's design team, led by Chief Engineer Elmo Boskovski, opted for a large four-engine turboprop configuration to meet the extended range and payload requirements. The all-metal mid-wing monoplane with arrow wing and single-fin tail. The aerodynamic design provided high aerodynamic efficiency at high flight speeds
The capacious inner fuel tanks were supplemented by underwing tanks to increase fuel capacity. For extended endurance missions, the aircraft was designed to be refuelable in-flight via a retractable probe.
The internal weapon bay could accommodate torpedoes, depth charges, or surveillance pods. Underwing hardpoints allowed for additional sensors, weapons, or lightweight fuel tanks. A rear gun turret provided defensive armament.
To reduce workload, the flight deck was designed for a crew of four - two pilots and two systems operators to manage sensors, communications, and defensive aids.
Flight Testing and Evaluation
After an intensive development and construction effort, the first P-4 prototype conducted its maiden flight from Gravelbottom Airport on 10.V.1731 AN. This initial flight took it across Siyachia, and then along the Batavian coast to Naudia'Diva island before returning to Gravelbottom, allowing an assessment of basic handling and systems.
Over the next few months, Benacian test pilots and engineers based at Gravelbottom put the P-4 through an intensive flight test programme, evaluating its performance, range, sensors, and weapon systems. While some teething issues were identified and addressed, the P-4 overall showed promising capabilities.
However, the rapid pace of development meant some planned advanced features like a revised engine installation had to be deferred. Delays were also caused by supply issues and Benacian modifications to the planned sensor and communication fits.
