The optimal lift-to-drag ratio is achieved at a definite angle of attack. To support the weight of the airplane at that angle of attack, you will need to fly at a speed proportional to the square root of the weight, for the reasons given in section 2.
A waverider is a hypersonic aircraft design that improves its supersonic lift-to-drag ratio by producing a lifting surface built out of the shock waves being generated by its own flight, a technique known as compression lift.
When extended the minimum (10 degrees) for takeoff, they increase the aircraft's lift-to-drag ratio and thus shorten the takeoff run (zero them when airborne).
 See also: Drag, Speed, Lift, Flight, Performance
  
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