Abstract: A rapidly extendible, rough-field attenuating shock-absorbing strut, particularly adapted for use with an aircraft having a tricycle landing gear, is used during takeoff and is adapted for rapid extension to provide angular or upward momentum to the aircraft and thus facilitate takeoff. The strut comprises an outer cylinder which is secured to the aircraft and an inner cylinder adapted for longitudinal reciprocation within the outer cylinder. The inner cylinder has a wheel mounted thereon at the end opposite that of the outer cylinder. A piston is secured for longitudinal reciprocation within both the outer and inner cylinders. The piston has a piston head adapted for reciprocation within the outer cylinder.