DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed locally advanced unresectable stage IIIA or IIIB non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including: Squamous cell carcinoma OR Adenocarcinoma (including bronchoalveolar cell) OR Large cell anaplastic carcinoma (including giant and clear cell) OR Poorly differentiated NSCLC No small cell carcinoma No distant metastases Measurable or evaluable disease by chest x-ray, CT, or MRI scan Tumors adjacent to vertebral body are eligible if all gross disease is in the radiation boost field No pleural effusion(s) that are exudative, bloody, or cytologically malignant No asymptomatic brain metastases by CT or MRI scan