The Av 8 Harrier, also known as the Harrier Jump Jet, is a family of single-engine, multi-role ground attack aircraft that can take off and land vertically, thanks to its four rotatable nozzles. Developed by Hawker Siddeley in the United Kingdom, the Harrier first flew in 1967 and has since become an iconic symbol of military aviation. With its unique ability to operate from small, unprepared areas, the Harrier has been used by several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, and Spain.
Key Points
- The Av 8 Harrier is a single-engine, multi-role ground attack aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities.
- It was developed by Hawker Siddeley in the United Kingdom and first flew in 1967.
- The Harrier has been used by several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, and Spain.
- Its unique design features four rotatable nozzles, allowing it to take off and land vertically.
- The Harrier has played a significant role in several military conflicts, including the Falklands War and the Gulf War.
Design and Development
The development of the Harrier began in the 1950s, when the British government issued a requirement for a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Hawker Siddeley, a leading British aircraft manufacturer at the time, responded with a design that would eventually become the Harrier. The aircraft’s unique design features four rotatable nozzles, which can be directed downwards for takeoff and landing, and rearwards for forward flight. This design allows the Harrier to operate from small, unprepared areas, making it an ideal choice for military operations.
Technical Specifications
The Av 8 Harrier is powered by a single Rolls-Royce Pegasus turbofan engine, which produces 21,500 pounds of thrust. The aircraft has a maximum speed of over 700 knots (1,300 km/h) and a range of over 1,000 nautical miles (1,900 km). The Harrier is also equipped with a variety of armaments, including missiles, rockets, and guns. Its advanced avionics system includes a radar, a navigation system, and a communication system.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1 |
| Length | 46 ft 10 in (14.3 m) |
| Wingspan | 22 ft 11 in (6.98 m) |
| Height | 11 ft 8 in (3.58 m) |
| Empty weight | 13,086 lb (5,938 kg) |
| Max takeoff weight | 26,000 lb (11,793 kg) |
| Engine | Rolls-Royce Pegasus 11-61 turbofan |
| Thrust | 21,500 lbf (95.6 kN) |
Military Service
The Av 8 Harrier has played a significant role in several military conflicts, including the Falklands War and the Gulf War. During the Falklands War, the Harrier was used by the British Royal Navy to attack Argentine forces, and it proved to be highly effective in this role. In the Gulf War, the Harrier was used by the United States Marine Corps to attack Iraqi forces, and it again proved to be highly effective.
Operational History
The Harrier has been used by several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, and Spain. It has been used in a variety of roles, including ground attack, air defense, and reconnaissance. The Harrier has also been used in several military exercises and training operations, and it has proven to be a valuable asset for military forces.
What is the Av 8 Harrier's primary role?
+The Av 8 Harrier's primary role is as a multi-role ground attack aircraft, capable of conducting a variety of missions, including air-to-ground attacks, air-to-air combat, and reconnaissance.
What is the Harrier's unique feature?
+The Harrier's unique feature is its ability to take off and land vertically, thanks to its four rotatable nozzles. This allows it to operate from small, unprepared areas, making it an ideal choice for military operations.
What countries have used the Harrier?
+The Harrier has been used by several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, and Spain.
In conclusion, the Av 8 Harrier is a highly capable and versatile aircraft that has played a significant role in several military conflicts. Its unique design and capabilities make it an ideal choice for military operations, particularly in situations where traditional runways are not available. As a testament to its enduring value, the Harrier remains in service with several countries, continuing to serve as a valuable asset for military forces around the world.
