V/STOL Capability by Modifying CTOL Aircraft

The increasing cost and vulnerability of conventional airbases and aircraft carriers places increasing emphasis on the continuing application of V/STOL technology. This paper reviews the status of V/STOL technology. The helicopter and the Harrier have proven themselves and the improved AV-8B is being developed.

This paper examines the possibilities of modifying CTOL aircraft to give them V/STOL capability to fill two other aircraft/mission areas; an air superiority V/STOL and a V/STOL type to fill the ASW, AEW, and missileer roles. Recommendations are made for a program to investigate such modifications of existing CTOL aircraft now used in these roles so that the application of V/STOL capability to these missions can be explored and evaluated. Other recommendations are made with respect to the need for engine out hover capability, the use of Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STO-VL) capability and the need for special V/STOL engine ratings.