An in-house design study was conducted by Wright Research and Development Center in 1988-1989. The goal was to produce an initial assessment of key capability needs, design features, and technology requirements of an Air Force Multi-Role (Defensive Counter Air and Battlefield Air Interdiction) Short Take-off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) Fighter. This paper summarizes some of the results of that study. The composite design mission and preliminary design goals are discussed. The resulting aircraft designs are presented and key design considerations are pointed out. Some general insights into the STOVL design drivers and requirements sensitivities are discussed.
