[tanknetter]

The ‘unique’ lift fan and vectoring tailpipe that allows the F-35B stealth fighter to perform vertical takeoffs and landings (VTOL) was designed nearly three decades ago by Russia’s Yakovlev aircraft bureau for their supersonic multi-services fighter, the Yak-141.

Um, the Yak-141 didn't use a lift fan. It used two dedicated lift jets in addition to the main engine.

Lockheed did take a look at the rotation assembly for the main engine exhaust, I think they even licensed it for a little bit, but despite some cosmetic similarities didn't incorporate it into the design for the F-35.

[Brad from Tennessee]

Thanks for the clarification. Writer might be confusing the Harrier vertical lift system with F-35B.