| X-31 | |
|---|---|
 The X-31 aircraft returns from a test flight for VECTOR. | |
| General information | |
| Type | Experimental aircraft |
| National origin | United States / Germany |
| Manufacturer | Rockwell / Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm |
| Primary users | DARPA |
| Number built | 2 |
| History | |
| First flight | 11 October 1990 |
The Rockwell-Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm X-31 is an experimental jet aircraft designed to test fighter thrust vectoring technology. It was designed and built by Rockwell and Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB), as part of a joint US and German Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability program to provide additional control authority in pitch and yaw, for significantly more maneuverability than most conventional fighters. An advanced flight control system provided controlled flight at high angles of attack where conventional aircraft would stall or lose control. Two aircraft were built, of which only one has survived.