In 1959, Boeing began research and development of hydrofoils. The hydrodynamic test system (HTS), called the Boeing "Aqua-Jet," was launched in 1961. It was a dual-cockpit jet-powered hydroplane that served as an aquatic version of a wind tunnel. Powered by an Allison J-33 jet engine, the HTS was designed to provide a level and stable platform for straightaway runs of up to 132 knots (115 mph/185 kph). A controllable fixture mounted between two prows held models of hydrofoils in the water during the test runs.

In 1962, Boeing built Little Squirt as a company-sponsored research craft, powered by a Boeing Model 520 turbine engine. Water was pumped from a scoop built into the rear foil and out through a nozzle into the air behind the boat. The 20-foot-long (6-meter-long) Little Squirt provided information on foil depth, speeds, operation in rough water and operation amid debris. It had fully submerged foils with movable surfaces for stability and control. These surfaces were connected to a pioneering automatic control systems that sensed and controlled the boat’s height above water as well its pitch, roll and heave.