Rockwell X-31 Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability program

The first Rockwell X-31 flies over Edwards Air Force Base, California, in 1993

The Rockwell X-31 Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability program was designed to test fighter thrust vectoring technology. Thrust vectoring allows the X-31 to fly in a direction other than where the nose is pointing, resulting in significantly more maneuverability than most conventional fighters.

Two X-31s were built, with the first flying on October 11, 1990. Over 500 test flights were carried out between 1990 and 1995. The X-31 featured fixed strakes along the aft fuselage, as well as a pair of movable computer-controlled canards to increase stability and maneuverability.

X-31 Demonstrating High Angle of Attack