adjustable centre of gravity

I've always been intrigued by Russian technology. The evolution of the Mig series of fighter jets has always been amazing to me. They were basically the only manned aircraft capable of intercepting our Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird... although the Mig could not sustain the high-speeds for very long, and required engine replacement after such an encounter.. it was nonetheless an impressive feat for a fighter jet of that era.

Here's a vid of an interesting Russian aeronautical design that I'm surprised hasn't seen more application in civil use. It does have it's limitations... mostly because of having to be operated in coastal areas.. which is what basically killed the great seaplanes. I remember the first time I saw video of this behemoth... and it still fascinates me.