This one reminds me of my childhood. Watching a plane take off vertically was something quite special, and still is even now. This was the only jet plane at the time that could pull off this feat, and it certainly is quite a feat of engineering to get this to work. Only the British government knows how much money was pumped into this project.

For those who are interested, here’s some theory behind how the engine works. Pretty clever people those engineers. You will need to click on the image to read it.

The latest F35B Lightning aircraft is also capable of doing this, but is not yet in active service I believe. No doubt a plane aficionado will correct me on this.

Taken at RAF museum, London, UK © dannyboybroderick