Multiple Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Pod was the forerunner to the HEV was a cross between a lifeboat and the HEV. It was shaped like a box with the front tapered a bit. Equipped with two space thrusters and two atmospherical engines it allowed the pod to be released in space and remain in orbit for up to 5 hours before "dropping in". The drop itself was similar to the HEV's beginning stages before the shute opened and then dropped off about half way into the atmosphere after which the engines would engage and fly down like a life pod. After landing the pod could be used for short distance flights though not combat ready or even practical as there are no windows.
I was thinking about what the HEV's forerunner would look like...