Vought XF8U-3 Crusader III

The Vought XF8U-3 Crusader III was designed as a replacement for the Vought F-8 Crusader. Competing against the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II (F4H at the time), it was found to have superior maneuverability and range. However, the inclusion of a radar intercept officer proved a distinct advantage when using missiles, as the requirement to keep the target illuminated quickly overwhelmed the Crusader pilot, while the Phantom pilot was able to share the workload.

The greater weapon carrying capacity of the Phantom and its ability to undertake air to ground missions also weighed against the Crusader and the project was cancelled after five aircraft were built. All five were transferred to NASA for atmospheric testing.