(YouTube Link)
The F-35, the next generation of vertical takeoff and landing jet fighter, developed by Lockheed-Martin, performed its first vertical landing yesterday:
Yesterday at 1 P.M., after descending from a 150-foot-high hover, the test plane touched down on the tarmac at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. This is a significant step forward for the F-35, as its vertical takeoff and landing capability are crucial to the fighter's role as a replacement for the aging Harrier jet.
The test began with a short runway takeoff at 93 miles per hour, after which the pilot swung around, positioned the plane over the runway, and lowered it down. The test pilot, a former Royal Air Force aviator with experience piloting VSTOL planes, said he found landing the F-35 vertically far easier than landing older planes, like the Harrier, the same way.
http://www.popsci.com/technology/article/2010-03/f-35-completes-first-success-fully-vertical-landing
It looks more dignified and relaxed than normal landings on aircraft carriers ;)
Though the plane isn't really a looker..
Look into what no one believes...
The Truth is: Nowhere.
The Truth is: Now here!
I haven't done any research on this new jet, but the Harrier has crashed many times and I'd guess that this is an improved, safer version.
What's more, this aircraft can do a hell of a lot more than a harrier (like supersonic flight, for one), it's not just "a plane that hovers".
By the way if you don't like planes that hover, there are two other versions that don't, so be happy!
@otterly:
Stop bitching, this is the product of the JSF program, which means it is funded by the USA, Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Turkey, Australia, Denmark and Canada.
If we have to apply force, it should be quick and overwhelming.