1. Parachute

Classification: Prototype Jet Fighter

The F-18 Striker was a prototype derived from the F-17 Sabre featuring a revolutionary cropped Delta wing design (also appropriately nicknamed "The Space Shuttle"). It boasted even higher roll rate and deflection than its predecessor and had an extra engine powering it. It also featured a parachute due to the higher landing speeds with the new Delta wing. The F-18 had a few notable aerodynamic improvements over the F-17 but featured exactly the same armament. Test pilots noted that it was difficult achieving stable flight as the aircraft would encounter a "rocking" motion after a maneuver. Although results proved positive, the aircraft was never put into production.