British Aerospace Harrier
Summary
| Category | Combat aircraft |
| Origin country | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom |
| First flight | 28 December 1968 |
| Year of introduction | 1969 |
| Number produced | 380 units |
| Average unit price | $24 million |
Description
The Harrier, a small-sized aircraft, was for a long time the only Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft used by Western forces. The main advantage of these aircraft lies in their ability to operate from aircraft carriers, roads, or damaged airfields, offering considerable operational flexibility.
Designed for light attack, ground support, and reconnaissance missions, the Harrier has a small-sized wing, allowing it to fly at low altitudes with good comfort for the pilots. The designers quickly realized that instead of vertically taking off, it was preferable to take off over short distances, optimizing payload and range.
The development of the Harrier began in the 1960s with the Hawker Siddeley Harrier, which entered service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1969. The success of this first-generation led to several evolutions, with the most notable being the Harrier GR.3, equipped with an improved navigation and attack system.
A version specifically designed for the United States Marine Corps was also developed, called the AV-8 Harrier II. This variant, produced in collaboration with McDonnell Douglas, featured numerous improvements, including an increased payload capacity, modern avionics, and structural enhancements. The AV-8B Harrier II became a key asset in the Marines' arsenal, providing rapid and responsive strike capability, even from forward bases.
The Harrier was also used by the British Royal Navy, primarily in operations aboard the Invincible-class aircraft carriers. The Sea Harrier, a naval variant of the Harrier, was designed for air defense and ground attack missions. The Sea Harrier notably distinguished itself during the Falklands War in 1982, where it played a crucial role in the defense of the British fleet.
In addition to the United Kingdom and the United States, the Harrier was also employed by the air forces of other countries, including Spain, Italy, and India. Each of these countries operated specific variants adapted to their operational needs.
Between 1969 and 1997, when production ceased, a total of 824 Harriers of all versions were built. It is now gradually being replaced by next-generation aircraft, such as the F-35 Lightning II.
Technical specifications
| Version: Harrier GR.1 | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1 pilot |
| Operational range | 1500 km (932 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 1183 km/h (735 mph) |
| Wing area | 18.7 m² (201.1 sqft) |
| Wingspan | 7.7 m (25.3 ft) |
| Height | 3.5 m (11.3 ft) |
| Length | 13.9 m (45.6 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 14996 m (49199 ft) |
| Empty weight | 5530 kg (12192 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 11500 kg (25353 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 1 × turbojet Rolls-Royce Pegasus 101 delivering 8618 kgp |
| Ejection seat | Martin-Baker Mk 9 |
Current operating countries
No country is operating the Harrier in 2024.
All operators
Armament
Missiles payload:
- Air-to-Surface AS.37 Martel
- Air-to-Air Short-Range Raytheon AIM-9 Sidewinder
Photo of Harrier
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