The Cheyenne's unique flexibility comes from its ability to lift itself into orbit under its own power from unprepared landing sites with the aid of its vertical take-off (VTOL) capability.
Derived from an original Department of Defense requirement formulated at the end of the Tientsin conflict for a multi-role light aerospace shuttle capable of lifting heavy payloads up to 16,000 kg. Considered a versatile dropship and tactical transport, the Cheyenne was employed by the United States Colonial Marine Corps.