The Cold War Jet That Proved Vertical Takeoff Works Then Got Canceled Anyway

The Ryan X-13 demonstrated that jet-powered vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) flight was indeed possible, yet its unique cable landing technique would ultimately prove to be its undoing, despite compiling a remarkably successful test flight record. While the aircraft itself never entered service, the lessons learned from its development helped shape the future of military VTOL aircraft for decades to come. For global militaries that have the ability to operate them, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft offer unique capabilities. These aircraft do not require the extensive infrastructure that conventional takeoff and landing fighters need to make an operational impact.