Overview
The AV-8B Harrier II Plus is a multi-mission, short-takeoff vertical landing (STOVL) tactical strike aircraft. Because of its short-to-vertical takeoff and landing characteristics, it possesses basing flexibility that is unmatched by other fixed-wing aircraft. Furthermore, it supports a broad selection of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapon systems and third-generation technologies that address diverse tactical scenarios.
Power and Lift
The AV-8B Harrier II Plus has a power and lift configuration that includes the following elements:
- A 23,500-pound thrust Rolls-Royce Pegasus 11-61 (F402-RR-408) engine
- Four rotating nozzles that provide its direct-lift capability, enabling the aircraft to hover
Weapon Systems and Technologies
The AV-8B Harrier II Plus carries the following weapons systems and technologies:
- APG-65 radar system
- A 25mm rapid-fire Gatling gun
- Air-to-air weapon systems:
- Heat-seeking Sidewinder missiles
- AIM-120 advanced medium range air-to-air missile (AMRAAM), which is a beyond-visual-range missile
- Air-to-surface weapon systems:
- Digital targeting data link
- Global positioning system
- Litening II Targeting Pod system
- Next-generation, precision-guided munitions, including the joint direct attack munition (JDAM)
Development
Planned as a major upgrade to the AV-8A Harrier I and with roots that go back to the Hawker P.1127, the AV-8B Harrier II Plus is a collaborative effort:
- Developed through an agreement between the United States, Spain, and Italy
- Utilized by the U.S. Marine Corps, Spanish Navy, and Italian Navy
- Development team members: Boeing, BAE Systems, and Rolls Royce