Thrust vectoring nozzles are one of the most consequential technological adaptations in modern aerospace design. By allowing an aircraft to redirect engine thrust rather than rely solely on aerodynamic control surfaces for maneuvering, thrust vectoring facilitates control authority in extreme flight conditions, making modern fifth-gen fighters vastly more maneuverable than their non-thrust vectoring predecessors. 

A thrust-vectoring nozzle physically deflects its exhaust flow to generate pitch, yaw, or roll moments. This works even when airflow over the wings is reduced or control surfaces are stalled, meaning there is a safety benefit, not just a maneuverability-for-flash benefit. Thrust vectoring typically comes in one of two common configurations: 2D, which controls pitch only, and 3D, which controls pitch, yaw, and sometimes roll. Both operate via movable nozzles flares at the engine exhaust with digital flight control integration. 

Thrust vectoring offers a stark departure from the nozzle design of........

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