The aim of this paper is to give an outline of the background, development and V/STOL flying techniques of the Hawker P.1127. For security reasons it is not possible to release information on performance or numerical details of the control characteristics and hence it has been necessary to confine the material to a qualitative nature.

Vertical and short take-off and landing (V/STOL) ability of operational aircraft from unprepared areas enables air power to be concentrated at long range with a minimum reliance, on overseas bases. In the past such operations have been possible because of the existence of well-equipped overseas bases and long lines of communications.