Single Stage Rocket Technology (SSRT) Delta Clipper Experimental (DC-X)

Years before SpaceX had its first successful rocket capable of vertical takeoff and landing, the McDonnell Douglas Delta Clipper Experimental was being successfully tested at White Sands Missile Range. Initially a single-stage rocket concept for the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), the DC-X was capable of controlled ascent, descent, and lateral translation. The DC-X was intended to be a cheaper and more reliable alternative to the Space Shuttle, capable of being ready for another mission after only a week of prep time. Unfortunately, a test flight that resulted in a fire resulted in the program's cancellation in 1996.
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[@PeteHemdem]

Only 20+ years ahead pf SpaceX.

[@happygilmore8768]

Dont forget Blue Origin too//

[@hithere7382]

Imagine what could have been if a single fire hadn't resulted in cancellation...

[@happygilmore8768]

The project actually lasted alot longer than anticipated also another fact is the guy who headed the project was promoted.................
He even congratulated SpaceX and said that they still had a long road ahead of themselves.........
I think his name was Dan Dumbacher

[@techtinkerin]

Legendary

[@flam91490]

you don't have to go far to find out where spacex acquired this VTOL technology
Congratulation MacDonnellDouglas engineers ;)