On June 23, 2001, the concept demonstrator aircraft X-35B made history by conducting its first vertical takeoff and vertical landing at Lockheed Martin Skunkworks in Palmdale, California.

Originally the X-35A, the X-35B was modified for the short-takeoff-vertical-landing (STOVL) concept. It was designed to meet U.S. Marine Corps and British Royal Air Force/Royal Navy requirements and featured a unique shaft-driven lift fan that amplified engine thrust, reduced exhaust temperature and velocity during vertical flight operations. This STOVL concept offered flexibility and access to diverse environments, such as confined spaces or areas lacking traditional runways. 

The X-35 developed by Lockheed Martin for the Joint Strike Fighter program was declared the winner over the competing X-32, developed by Boeing. 

The X-35B flight test program was one of the shortest, most effective in history, lasting from June 23 to August 6, 2001.