Yachting Magazine December 1966

Intent on the demonstration of his jet hull, Willis Slane shouts orders to his crew. Arthur G. Eldredge from the Navy Department stands by in the background.

The naval officer group immediately responded with enthusiasm to the proposal. They were familiar with water jet propulsion units, but had never adapted the principle to any of their operational hulls-perhaps this was the proper type hull application. Further details were discussed and finally it was determined that a prototype evaluation was necessary. Slane then went into a huddle with his naval architect, Jack Hargrave. Quick estimates were made on loads, speed-range and so on. Willis Slane said, "I believe I can provide you with a hull and propulsion system which will meet your requirements and I am prepared to build a prototype at my cost to prove it." It was a magnanimous offer, which was well received. Willis then asked, "When would you like to have the boat?" There was a pause in the answer in deference to his original generous offer, then one of the officers made the obvious comment that the program was particularly urgent. Slane then announced that with luck, he would have the boat in the water and ready for testing in less than two weeks.

The meeting closed shortly thereafter on a note of great cordiality. I felt that I had witnessed quite an extraordinary demonstration of how private industry is capable of working with our complex defense establishment.

Willis flew home from Washington that night fired with enthusiasm over the project. He was determined to fulfill his dramatic promise of a finished boat in ten days. It is true that the basic hull was available from the production line but, beyond this, the machinery and most all portions were of unique and special design. Everything had to go together properly. He got back to the plant on a Friday night and went to work. Twelve days later, the boat was in the water and ready for preliminary trials.