What is the Harrier jump jet, and what is its primary capability?

The Harrier jump jet is a family of jet-powered attack aircraft renowned for its vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) operations. This capability allows it to operate from improvised bases like car parks or forest clearings, and later from aircraft carriers, without needing large, conventional airfields.

What does the term V/STOL stand for in relation to the Harrier?

V/STOL stands for Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing. This refers to the aircraft's ability to take off vertically or with a very short ground roll, a crucial feature that distinguishes it from conventional aircraft.

Who originally developed the Harrier jump jet, and in which decade?

The Harrier jump jet was originally developed by the British manufacturer Hawker Siddeley in the 1960s.

What is the significance of the Harrier being the only successful V/STOL design from its era?

The Harrier's success highlights the difficulty in achieving practical V/STOL capabilities during the 1960s. It emerged as the sole truly successful design among numerous attempts, demonstrating the effectiveness of its unique engineering approach.

How many generations and main variants of the Harrier family were developed?

There are two generations and four main variants of the Harrier family, developed collaboratively by UK and US manufacturers.

What are the two main generations of Harrier aircraft?

The two main generations are the Hawker Siddeley Harrier (first generation) and the AV-8B Harrier II / British Aerospace Harrier II (second generation).

Which aircraft is identified as the predecessor to the Harrier?

The Hawker Siddeley P.1127 is identified as the predecessor to the Harrier, serving as its development basis.

What was the motivation behind the development of VTOL aircraft in the 1950s?

The motivation was to eliminate the reliance on vulnerable runways by enabling aircraft to take off and land vertically, a concept explored by aircraft companies in Europe and America following the Korean War.

What was the name of the innovative vectored thrust engine that powered the Harrier's development?

The innovative vectored thrust engine that powered the Harrier's development was named Pegasus.

What was the initial NATO specification that Hawker Aircraft aimed to meet with its V/STOL design?

Hawker Aircraft developed its design to meet a NATO specification calling for a 'Light Tactical Support Fighter'.

What was the internal company designation for the Harrier's prototype design?

The internal company designation for the Harrier's prototype design was P.1127.

What RAF requirement led to the development of the Harrier GR.1?

The RAF's Requirement ASR 384, which sought a V/STOL aircraft for ground attack operations, led to the development of the Harrier GR.1.

What was the NATO NBMR-3 specification, and which aircraft competed for it?

The NATO NBMR-3 specification called for a supersonic V/STOL strike fighter. The Hawker P.1154 was selected to meet this requirement, competing primarily against the Dassault Mirage IIIV.

Why was the Hawker P.1154 project cancelled?

The P.1154 project was cancelled by the new British government on February 2, 1965, due to cost concerns at the stage of prototype construction.

What was the Hawker Siddeley Kestrel, and what was its purpose?

The Hawker Siddeley Kestrel was an evaluation aircraft, with nine ordered and manufactured. It was used by a multinational 'Tri-partite Evaluation Squadron' to assess the operational capabilities of VTOL aircraft.

When did the Harrier GR.1 officially enter service with the RAF?

The Harrier GR.1 officially entered service with the Royal Air Force on April 18, 1969.

Which US military branch procured the first-generation Harrier, and what were its designations?

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) procured the first-generation Harrier, receiving 102 AV-8A and 8 TAV-8A models between 1971 and 1976.

What is the British Aerospace Sea Harrier, and which navies operated it?

The British Aerospace Sea Harrier is a naval V/STOL jet fighter, reconnaissance, and attack aircraft derived from the Hawker Siddeley Harrier. It was operated by the Royal Navy and the Indian Navy.

What significant conflict saw the Sea Harrier play a prominent role?

The Sea Harrier played a high-profile role in the Falklands War of 1982, operating from the aircraft carriers HMS Invincible and HMS Hermes.

What was the informal name given to the Sea Harrier FRS.1?

The Sea Harrier FRS.1 was informally known as the 'Shar'.

What improvements were made in the second-generation Harrier, and who collaborated on its development?

The second-generation Harrier, known as the AV-8B Harrier II (US) and British Aerospace Harrier II (UK), featured significant redevelopment. Early efforts concentrated on an improved Pegasus engine, and British Aerospace and McDonnell Douglas collaborated on its development.

When was the first production AV-8B Harrier II delivered to the USMC?

The first production AV-8B Harrier II was delivered to the USMC on December 12, 1983.

Which RAF squadrons were equipped with the second-generation Harrier II, and when did the first become operational?

The RAF operated the second-generation Harrier II (GR5/GR7/GR9). The first RAF squadron equipped with the Harrier II became operational in December 1989.

What led to the disbandment of the Joint Force Harrier operational unit?

The Joint Force Harrier operational unit was disbanded in 2010 as a cost-saving measure, with the RAF and RN retiring their remaining Harriers by 2011.

When did Harrier production conclude, and what was the total number of aircraft delivered?

Harrier production concluded between 1969 and 2003, with a total of 824 Harriers of all types delivered. The last remanufactured aircraft was delivered in December 2003.

What is the limitation regarding the Harrier's vertical takeoff capability?

The Harrier can only perform a vertical takeoff at less than its maximum loaded weight. For missions requiring a full load of fuel and weapons, a short takeoff is necessary to supplement vertical lift with aerodynamic lift.

What is the 'shipborne rolling vertical landing' (SRVL) technique used by the Harrier?

SRVL is a landing technique where the Harrier performs a near-vertical landing with some forward speed, rather than a conventional landing, to manage the aircraft's relatively vulnerable outrigger undercarriage.

What is 'vectoring in forward flight' (VIFFing), and what tactical advantage does it provide?

VIFFing involves rotating the vectored thrust nozzles to an angle other than directly rearward during normal flight. This tactic allows for more sudden braking and higher turn rates, potentially causing a pursuing aircraft to overshoot.

How does wind direction critically affect Harrier VTOL operations?

Wind direction is critical because if the aircraft is not aligned with the wind entering the intake, it can cause the nose to yaw, potentially leading to a loss of control due to intake momentum drag. Pilots use a wind vane to help maintain alignment.

Describe the process for a vertical takeoff with the Harrier.

For a vertical takeoff, the Harrier faces into the wind, its swiveling nozzles are pointed vertically downwards, and the throttle is advanced to maximum. The pilot adjusts the throttle to maintain a stable hover at the desired altitude.

How does a short takeoff procedure differ from a vertical takeoff for the Harrier?

A short takeoff involves a normal takeoff roll, but the nozzles are rotated partially downwards (less than 90 degrees) at a speed below normal takeoff speed, typically around 65 knots. A greater downward thrust vector is used for more jet lift during a shorter takeoff run.

What is the reaction control system used for in the Harrier?

The reaction control system uses thrusters located at the aircraft's extremities (nose, tail, wingtips) to direct engine bleed air. This system provides control over pitch, roll, and yaw during hover and low-speed flight before the conventional control surfaces become effective.

Why is flying the Harrier described as 'unforgiving'?

The Harrier is considered 'unforgiving' because pilots must skillfully manage transitions between conventional wing-borne flight and VTOL/STOL modes. This requires considerable skill and concentration, especially in challenging conditions like crosswinds.

What kind of pilot training was considered beneficial for Harrier pilots?

Pilots for the Kestrel evaluation were given helicopter tuition, and it was explored whether experienced helicopter pilots would be suitable for Harrier squadrons. However, the transition to fast-jet operations proved difficult for pilots solely experienced in helicopters.

What was the primary method used by the RAF and Royal Navy to replace their Harrier fleets?

The RAF and Royal Navy retired their remaining Harriers by 2011 and subsequently introduced the STOVL variant of the F-35 Lightning II, designated the F-35B, as their replacement.

Which countries currently operate the Harrier II or its variants?

As of the provided text, the United States Marine Corps, Spanish Navy, and Italian Navy operate Harrier II variants. The Royal Air Force and Royal Navy have retired their fleets.

What was the maximum speed of the Harrier GR3/AV-8A?

The maximum speed of the Harrier GR3/AV-8A was 731 mph (1,176 km/h).

What was the combat radius of the Harrier GR9 and the AV-8B+ Harrier?

Both the Harrier GR9 and the AV-8B+ Harrier had a combat radius of 300 nautical miles (556 km).

Which Harrier variants were equipped with radar systems?

The Sea Harrier FA2 was equipped with the Ferranti Blue Fox / Blue Vixen radar, and the AV-8B+ Harrier was equipped with the AN/APG-65 radar.

What is the significance of the 'P.1127' designation in Harrier development?

The P.1127 was the internal company designation for the Hawker prototype aircraft that served as the direct predecessor and basis for the Harrier jump jet.

What role did the 'Tri-partite Evaluation Squadron' play in Harrier development?

The Tri-partite Evaluation Squadron, consisting of British, US, and German pilots, evaluated the Hawker Siddeley Kestrel (a derivative of the P.1127) to determine how VTOL aircraft could be operated.

What was the purpose of the 'Harrier II Plus' configuration?

The Harrier II Plus configuration refers to the last remanufactured aircraft delivered in December 2003, marking the end of the Harrier production line.

How did the Spanish Navy utilize the Harrier?

The Spanish Navy operated the AV-8S Matador, a variant of the Harrier, and was looking to replace them with the F-35B, though service life extensions were later announced due to funding issues.

What is the 'Blue Fox' radar system associated with?

The Ferranti Blue Fox radar system was associated with the Sea Harrier FA2 variant.

What aircraft replaced the Sea Harriers in the Indian Navy?

The Indian Navy retired its Sea Harriers in 2016, replacing them with the conventional Mikoyan MiG-29K.

What is the 'F-35B' designation, and how does it relate to the Harrier?

The F-35B is the STOVL variant of the F-35 Lightning II. It has replaced the Harrier II in service with the US Marine Corps, the Royal Air Force, and the Royal Navy, as well as the Italian Navy.

What was the 'Joint Force Harrier' operational unit?

Joint Force Harrier was an operational unit that combined the RAF and Royal Navy's Harrier fleets. It was disbanded in 2010.

What was the purpose of the 'reaction control system' in the Harrier?

The reaction control system used bleed air directed through thrusters at the aircraft's extremities (nose, tail, wingtips) to provide pitch, roll, and yaw control during hover and low-speed flight.

What is the 'intake momentum drag' phenomenon mentioned in relation to Harrier VTOL operations?

Intake momentum drag occurs when the airflow entering the engine intake is not perfectly straight, causing a sideways force that can lead to a loss of control if not corrected. This makes precise alignment with the wind crucial during VTOL maneuvers.

What is the 'ski-jump ramp' used for on some aircraft carriers operating the Harrier?

The ski-jump ramp is a feature on the bow of some aircraft carriers designed to assist the Harrier in becoming airborne during a short takeoff, providing an upward trajectory to supplement lift.

What was the role of the 'Pegasus' engine in the Harrier's design?

The Pegasus engine, developed by Bristol Engine Company, was central to the Harrier's V/STOL capability due to its vectored thrust system, which allowed the engine's exhaust to be directed downwards for vertical lift or rearwards for forward propulsion.

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Overview

Revolutionary V/STOL Capability

The Harrier is a family of jet-powered attack aircraft renowned for its unique Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing (V/STOL) capabilities. Named after the bird of prey, it was originally developed by Hawker Siddeley in the United Kingdom during the 1960s. It stands as the only truly successful V/STOL design from that era, conceived to operate from austere, improvised locations without the need for large, vulnerable air bases.

Adaptable for Naval Operations

Beyond its land-based utility, the Harrier design was ingeniously adapted for naval operations. This allowed it to serve from aircraft carriers, significantly enhancing the operational flexibility and reach of naval forces. Its ability to operate from smaller vessels without catapults or arresting gear was a groundbreaking achievement.

Enduring Legacy

Evolving through two generations and multiple variants, the Harrier family has served with distinction for decades. Its direct descendants and successors, such as the AV-8B Harrier II and the British Aerospace Harrier II, continued to push the boundaries of V/STOL technology, influencing subsequent aircraft designs and maintaining a significant presence in global air forces.

Development

The Genesis of V/STOL

During the 1950s, the pursuit of aircraft capable of Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) gained momentum. Companies explored innovative engine concepts, including vectored thrust, to eliminate reliance on conventional runways. Hawker Aircraft, in collaboration with Bristol Engine Company's Pegasus vectored thrust engine, developed the P.1127 design to meet a NATO specification for a Light Tactical Support Fighter.

From P.1127 to Harrier

The initial P.1127 prototype first flew in 1960. Its capabilities were further refined through the Kestrel evaluation aircraft, which underwent multinational trials. Following the cancellation of the supersonic P.1154 project, the Royal Air Force (RAF) opted for a modified derivative of the P.1127, designated the Harrier GR.1, entering service in 1969. The United States Marine Corps (USMC) also adopted the type as the AV-8A.

International Collaboration

The Harrier's development was a testament to international cooperation. Early work was supported by NATO's Mutual Weapon Development Program. Later, British Aerospace (BAe) and McDonnell Douglas collaborated on a second generation, the Harrier II, significantly enhancing performance and capabilities, leading to the AV-8B and British Aerospace Harrier II variants.

Generations

First Generation Harriers

The initial generation included the Hawker Siddeley Harrier GR.1/GR.3 for the RAF and the AV-8A for the USMC. A significant naval variant, the British Aerospace Sea Harrier (FRS.1), was developed for the Royal Navy, famously distinguishing itself in the Falklands War. These aircraft established the V/STOL concept's viability.

Second Generation Harrier II

The Harrier II represented a substantial upgrade, featuring a larger wing, improved Pegasus engine, and advanced avionics. Developed jointly by McDonnell Douglas (later Boeing) and British Aerospace (later BAE Systems), this generation included the AV-8B Harrier II for the USMC and the Harrier II GR5/GR7/GR9 for the RAF and Royal Navy. These variants offered enhanced payload, range, and multi-role capabilities.

Operation

V/STOL Mechanics

The Harrier's V/STOL capability is achieved through the Rolls-Royce Pegasus engine, which features four rotating nozzles. For vertical operations, these nozzles direct thrust downwards. For short takeoffs, a combination of forward nozzle rotation and forward speed generates aerodynamic lift. Landings typically employ a near-vertical approach known as Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landing (SRVL).

Vectoring in Forward Flight (VIFF)

A key operational tactic is "Vectoring In Forward Flight" (VIFF). By partially rotating the engine nozzles forward, pilots can achieve rapid deceleration and enhanced turn rates, providing a significant advantage in air-to-air combat. This maneuverability allows the aircraft to brake suddenly, potentially causing pursuing aircraft to overshoot.

Pilot Skill and Challenges

Flying the Harrier demands exceptional pilot skill due to the complexities of transitioning between hover and conventional flight modes, especially in adverse weather. The aircraft's handling characteristics, particularly in hover, require precise control inputs and a deep understanding of its unique flight dynamics. Initial training often included helicopter piloting experience to familiarize pilots with hover control.

Variants

Key Variants

The Harrier family encompasses several distinct variants, each representing an evolution in capability:

Hawker P.1127: The original prototype.
Kestrel FGA.1: Evaluation aircraft.
Harrier GR.1/1A/3/3A: First-generation RAF variants for ground attack and reconnaissance.
Harrier T.2/2A/4/4A/8/52/60: Two-seat trainer versions.
AV-8A/C/S Harrier Mk.50/53/55/Matador: USMC and Spanish Navy variants.
TAV-8A/S Harrier Mk.54/Matador: Two-seat trainer for USMC/Spanish Navy.
Sea Harrier FRS.1/FRS.51/F(A).2: Naval strike/air defence fighter for Royal Navy and Indian Navy.
AV-8B Harrier II/EAV-8B Matador II: Second-generation USMC variant with improved performance.
AV-8B Harrier II Night Attack/AV-8B Harrier II Plus: Enhanced versions with night attack capabilities and radar.
Harrier GR.5/5A/7/7A/9/9A: Second-generation RAF/RN variants.
Harrier T.10/12: Two-seat trainer versions of the Harrier II.

Operators

Key Operators

The Harrier family has been operated by several nations, with significant contributions from the United Kingdom and the United States. Key operators include:

United Kingdom: Royal Air Force (RAF), Royal Navy (Fleet Air Arm)
United States: United States Marine Corps (USMC)
Spain: Spanish Navy
India: Indian Navy
Italy: Italian Navy
Thailand: Royal Thai Navy (former)

Specifications

Comparative Data

The specifications highlight the evolution across different Harrier variants, showcasing advancements in performance and capabilities.

	Kestrel FGA.1	Harrier GR3/AV-8A	Sea Harrier FA2	Harrier GR9	AV-8B+ Harrier
Crew	One (Two for trainer versions)
Length	42 ft 6 in (13.0 m)	47 ft 2 in (14.4 m)	46 ft 6 in (14.2 m)	46 ft 4 in (14.1 m)	47 ft 8 in (14.5 m)
Wingspan	22 ft 11 in (6.98 m)	25 ft 3 in (7.70 m)	25 ft 3 in (7.70 m)	30 ft 4 in (9.25 m)	30 ft 4 in (9.25 m)
Height	10 ft 9 in (3.28 m)	11 ft 4 in (3.45 m)	12 ft 4 in (3.76 m)	11 ft 8 in (3.56 m)	11 ft 8 in (3.56 m)
Empty weight	10,000 lb (4,540 kg)	12,200 lb (5,530 kg)	14,052 lb (6,370 kg)	12,500 lb (5,670 kg)?	13,968 lb (6,340 kg)
Maximum take-off weight (short takeoff)	17,000 lb (7,710 kg)	26,000 lb (11,800 kg)	26,200 lb (11,900 kg)	31,000 lb (14,100 kg)	31,000 lb (14,100 kg)
Max speed	545 mph (877.1 km/h)	731 mph (1,176 km/h)	735 mph (1,183 km/h)	662 mph (1,065 km/h)	662 mph (1,065 km/h)
Combat radius		200 nmi (370 km)		300 nmi (556 km)	300 nmi (556 km)
Engine	Pegasus 6	Pegasus 11 Mk 101	Pegasus 11 Mk 106	Pegasus 11 Mk 107	Pegasus 11 Mk 105
Thrust	15,000 lbf (66.7 kN)	21,800 lbf (97.0 kN)	21,800 lbf (97.0 kN)	24,750 lbf (110 kN)	23,500 lbf (105 kN)
Radar	None	None	Blue Fox / Blue Vixen	None	AN/APG-65

Replacement

Transition to F-35B

The operational career of the Harrier family has largely concluded, with many operators transitioning to more advanced platforms. The Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II, a fifth-generation STOVL fighter, has become the successor for several nations, including the US Marine Corps, Royal Air Force, and Italian Navy. This transition marks the end of an era for the iconic jump jet.

Retirement and Legacy

The RAF and Royal Navy retired their Harrier fleets around 2010-2011. Remaining airframes were sold, primarily to the US Marine Corps for spare parts. While the Harrier's direct service has ended, its pioneering V/STOL technology and operational successes, particularly in the Falklands War, cemented its place in aviation history and influenced the development of modern combat aircraft.

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References

The name "Pegasus" for the engine was in keeping with Bristol's tradition of naming engines after figures from classical mythology.

"VTOL Aircraft 1966". Flight International, 26 May 1966. p. 884.

Wyatt, Caroline. "Struggle at the top over decision to scrap UK Harriers." BBC News, 15 December 2010.

"Harrier Projects". airforce-technology.com. Retrieved: 21 July 2011.

"Harrier jump jets make final flight from RAF Cottesmore". BBC News,

Indian Navy Retires Sea Harriers 21 March 2016. Accessed 3 April 2016.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Harrier jump jet Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional aviation advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding aircraft specifications, operational procedures, or historical accuracy. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified experts for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Vertical Horizon

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

✈️ Revolutionary V/STOL Capability

🚢 Adaptable for Naval Operations

🚀 Enduring Legacy

Development ⚙️

💡 The Genesis of V/STOL

📜 From P.1127 to Harrier

🤝 International Collaboration

Generations 📜

🚀 First Generation Harriers

🌟 Second Generation Harrier II

Operation ✈️

⬆️ V/STOL Mechanics

🔄 Vectoring in Forward Flight (VIFF)

⚠️ Pilot Skill and Challenges

Variants 🗂️

📜 Key Variants

Operators 🌍

🇬🇧 Key Operators

Specifications 📏

📊 Comparative Data

Replacement ➡️

🔄 Transition to F-35B

⏳ Retirement and Legacy

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Revolutionary V/STOL Capability

Adaptable for Naval Operations

Enduring Legacy

Development

The Genesis of V/STOL

From P.1127 to Harrier

International Collaboration

Generations

First Generation Harriers

Second Generation Harrier II

Operation

V/STOL Mechanics

Vectoring in Forward Flight (VIFF)

Pilot Skill and Challenges

Variants

Key Variants

Operators

Key Operators

Specifications

Comparative Data

Replacement

Transition to F-35B

Retirement and Legacy

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice