The DS-6 Phoenix is the first armed VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) tactical troop drop-ship that was capable of ELAD/C (extremely low airspeed descents and climbs). Developed by the ARD in 1995, the DS-6 built on earlier design proposals for VTOL transport aircraft. Utilizing 90 degree rotating flaps that doubled as nozzles to vector thrust, the Phoenix could hover and use afterburners to rapidly decelerate out of descents and aid in steep ascents. The Phoenix was renowned for its combat approaches - coined “re-entries” by crew for their near zero G descents over enemy territory.

The DS-6 earned its Phoenix name due to its fiery afterburner ELAC ascents, which would often scorch the terrain below the aircraft