AV-8B Harrier Jump Jets

Introduction to the AV-8B Harrier Jump Jets

The AV-8B Harrier Jump Jets are a family of second-generation Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing (V/STOL) jet aircraft used by the United States Marine Corps. The Harrier is a unique aircraft that can take off and land vertically, similar to a helicopter, but can also fly at high speeds like a conventional airplane. This capability makes the Harrier an essential part of the Marine Corps’ air-ground task force.

Design and Development

The AV-8B Harrier was developed from the earlier AV-8A Harrier, which was introduced in the 1970s. The AV-8B features a more powerful engine, improved avionics, and increased payload capacity. The aircraft is designed to operate from small, forward-deployed bases and can be used for a variety of missions, including close air support, reconnaissance, and air-to-air combat.

Key Features

Some of the key features of the AV-8B Harrier include: * Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) capability, allowing the aircraft to operate from small, unprepared areas * High-angle-of-attack maneuvering, enabling the Harrier to perform unique combat maneuvers * Advanced avionics, including a digital flight control system and a multifunction display * Multi-mission capability, allowing the Harrier to perform a variety of tasks, including close air support, reconnaissance, and air-to-air combat

Operational History

The AV-8B Harrier has seen extensive combat service, including: * Gulf War: The Harrier was used for close air support and reconnaissance missions during the Gulf War. * War in Afghanistan: The Harrier was used for close air support and reconnaissance missions in Afghanistan. * Iraq War: The Harrier was used for close air support and reconnaissance missions in Iraq.

Variants

There are several variants of the AV-8B Harrier, including: * AV-8B Harrier II: The standard variant, used for close air support and reconnaissance missions. * AV-8B(NA): A night attack variant, equipped with advanced avionics and a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor. * TAV-8B Harrier: A two-seat trainer variant, used for pilot training.

Operators

The AV-8B Harrier is operated by the following countries: * United States: The United States Marine Corps is the primary operator of the AV-8B Harrier. * Italy: The Italian Navy operates a variant of the Harrier, known as the AV-8B Harrier II Plus. * Spain: The Spanish Navy operates a variant of the Harrier, known as the AV-8B Harrier II Plus.

💡 Note: The AV-8B Harrier is scheduled to be replaced by the F-35B Lightning II, which is a fifth-generation multirole fighter aircraft.

Specifications

The AV-8B Harrier has the following specifications:

Characteristic	Value
Length	46 ft 4 in (14.12 m)
Wingspan	30 ft 4 in (9.25 m)
Height	11 ft 8 in (3.58 m)
Empty weight	13,086 lb (5,936 kg)
Max takeoff weight	31,000 lb (14,069 kg)
Engine	Rolls-Royce Pegasus 11
Thrust	23,800 lbf (106 kN)
Max speed	630 mph (1,014 km/h)
Range	1,200 nmi (2,222 km)

In summary, the AV-8B Harrier is a highly capable and versatile aircraft that has seen extensive combat service. Its unique vertical takeoff and landing capability, combined with its advanced avionics and multi-mission capability, make it an essential part of the Marine Corps’ air-ground task force.