The X-25A and X-25B were used to evaluate the piloting and training requirements of the autogyros. In this scheme, it was proposed to integrate combat aircraft ejection seats with a small autogyro or rotor kite to allow downed pilots more control over their post-ejection landing spot. In May 1968 a B-8 and B-8M were studied by the USAF under the Discretionary Descent Vehicle (DDV) program as the X-25B and X-25A respectively. The B-8's design is extremely minimalist, with not much more to the aircraft than a pilot's seat, a single tailfin, a rotor and (in powered versions) the powerplant. The design proved to be extremely popular and long-lasting, with thousands of sets of plans sold over the next thirty years. It first flew in this form in 1955, and on 6 December a powered version, designated B-8M (M for motorized) first flew. Its design was a refinement of the Bensen B-7, and like that aircraft, the B-8 was initially built as an unpowered rotor-kite. Although the original manufacturer stopped production in 1987, plans for homebuilders are still available as of 2007. The Bensen B-8 is a small, single-seat autogyro developed in the United States in the 1950s. United States - Single-seat light autogyroġ964 Bensen B-8M "Gyro-Copter" (N4084K, s/n AS-1) at the Planes of Fame Air Museum, Chino, CAīensen B-8M "Gyro-Copter" (N64808, s/n 38120) c.2003 at the Yankee Air Museum, Belleville, MIīensen B-8M "Gyro-Copter" c.2004 at the Tillamook Air Museum, Tillamook, ORīensen B-8M "Gyro-Copter" c.2004 at the March Field Air Museum, Riverside, CA
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