The F-35 was doomed from the start when different branches wanted different things. Vertical takeoff, stealth shielding, etc.

Recent dogfight tests have shown it loses to earlier jets. Too many compromises hurt it's ability to be a great fighter.

*Related=http://videosift.com/video/Spectacular-Vertical-Takeoff-MiG-29

There was a problem completing Related=http://videosift.com/video/Spectacular-Vertical-Takeoff-MiG-29 request.

Same, this isn't a Vertical Takeoff, this is a MiG that goes vertical shortly after takeoff.

First Footage of F-35B Vertical Takeoff has been added as a related post - related requested by kulpims on that post.

The Harrier could also be used for vertical takeoff if required (VTOL), which I believe is not possible with the F35 (STOVL)?

>> ^Jinx:

The Harrier is to the F35 as the Sopwith Camel is to the Eurofighter.
Ok, thats hyperbole, but the Harrier was pretty limited. I wasn't supersonic for a start, no stealth capabilities, fairly limited air to air/manoeuverability etc. No gun for ground attack either.

Afterburners of course don't work without substantial air compression. The air is compressed when the plane is travelling really fast, say 500mph. Even if an F-15 could control the vertical takeoff (no way in hell with no control surfaces or nose rockets), it would never have the thrust from a standstill.


Also, this has to be a dupe. It is ancient video...

the vertical takeoff is impressive. what's it like with sand in it?

not so, Deano! ArmadilloAerospace.com (Carmacks company) is going for the vertical takeoff and landing model as well. It's quite practical and not just for space travel. Imagine the technology so available you could drop oxygen bottles to within 1 foot of a coordinate on top of Mt. Everest, etc. Carmack is going for affordable rocket modules, with up to 64 on an orbital craft. Cheap, redundant, precise.