Dyna-Soar combined earlier Air Force boost-glider studies into a reusable craft launched by a modified Titan. Proposed roles ranged from research to reconnaissance, inspection, rescue, and military operations.

The program conducted extensive wind-tunnel, structures, materials, guidance, pressure-suit, and crew-station development. Seven pilots were selected, but none received a completed X-20 flight assignment.

Cancellation in December 1963 ended the vehicle before flight hardware was completed. Its engineering and test-pilot record remains an important bridge between rocket planes and later reusable orbiters.