Since the introduction of gyros the vertical take off is relatively easy. But seriously, ever you tried a plane that leave you throw on the ground an handfull of dimes, then chose one and vertically land on the chosen one and with the nose pointing in the direction you want? This plane can, and can hover perfectly on place like a helicopter

USER MANUAL:

1 - Activate the VTOL controlled brakes (Let you stop in air when you attempt to vertical land)
8 - Activate/deactivate gyro (needed for VTOL operation, you can use it in flight but it's better if disabled during fight)

VTOL DOWN - Thrustport down (if 1 is activated, the brakes will open)

During vertical flight all control works, and you can use roll to create a lateral component for strafe. Down/up made similar but for forward/backward, Yaw work perfectly.

The gun can sink a ship, but not destroy a bridge (this is intended)