of course they did
basically a harrier will never normally take off using VTOL - this is because it uses too much fuel to actually lift the Harrier up - this is based on RAF SOP's (standard operating procedures)
on combat missions, the pilot wants as much fuel as he can, so he can last as long as possible, and have reserves just to make sure (never know what could happen). A VTOL takeoff will waste too much - so they invented the ski ramp - this unique system cuts take off distances in half...
basically the pilot will set the nozzels tp full back and move off at full thrust... as the harrier climbs the ramp, he will flick the nozzles full down at the last minute to give lift - and hey presto, you have one of the smallest air craft carries in service and an easy takeoff... landing is done by VTOL - as all they are doing is slowing down their decent, not fully lifting their weight - and also you are home dry, so fuel isnt a concern
as for the Marines wasp class carrier - no ski ramp and consequently a longer take off - not sure if they have catupults - im sure they dont, they use a similiar method as the brits, but dont have the ski ramp which makes the carrier smaller. They deffinatly land VTOL.
now the new pics - great to see the pilot fills the cockpit - looks perfect - the textures on the last pic look a bit dodgy - maybe its the pic/pc/ or lighting.
btw, the pilots will take off VTOL - but not during combat - unless under very unusual circumstances - or if they wanna have some fun.
one question - how are u going to get the AI to use it? as in, i would like to see a working script that makes the AI use VTOL correctly - this has to be one of the most eagerly awaited addons :thumbsup: