Explained: The Difference Between X-32 And F-35 Vertical Lift Systems

The Boeing X-32 was Boeing’s concept demonstrator built to compete in the Joint Strike Fighter competition, although it lost to the Lockheed Martin X-35 demonstrator. One requirement of the fighter was that it be capable of Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) so that it could replace the F-16 and F/A-18 and the AV-8B Harrier II. It should be noted that STOVL was just one of the many factors considered when selecting the winner for the program.