Fact 338: Can Harrier Jump Jets take off Vertically?

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Fact 338: Can Harrier Jump Jets take off Vertically?


Yes, impressively the Harrier jump jet can actually take off Vertically and hover like a helicopter, harriers can also fly sideways, fly backwards, and even Vertically land.
The Harrier jump jet can do this because its exhaust nozzles, which is the part where the exhaust fuel (gasses) comes out can swivel (move) to change the direction of thrust from the Harrier's jet engine allowing it to move differently to other jets. 


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