The Harrier Jump Jet is the worlds only vertical take off and landing jet fighter. It was developed by the British in an era of financial cutbacks which saw the end of the large Royal Navy Aircraft Carriers. It can use airfields on land or fly from smaller aircraft carriers at sea and is flown by the best US and British pilots. It combines the best aspects of a helicopter with those of a fighter jet. For example, the world speed record for a helicopter is 249 mph (Linx helicopter) whilst the Harrier can fly at 730 mph.