Description
Describes in detail the development of the V/STOL system from the tentative hovering of the Hawker P1127 in 1960 to the incomparable agility of the GR.9
An appropriate time to publish as the Harrier, now serving only with the US Marine Corps and the air forces of Spain and Italy, approaches retirement across the world
Illustrated with over 400 images, many previously unpublished
Harrier tells the story of the unique development of a practical V/STOL combat concept into an extremely versatile ground-attack aircraft able to deliver multiple precision weapons in close support of ground troops, as well as air defence of naval assets.
When first flown, the Harrier could barely carry enough fuel for more than a few minutes of hovering, but its potential was indisputable, and proved by the later US Marine Corps AV-8B Plus and RAF GR.9, which could both deliver over two tons of ordnance with great accuracy, day and night, in all weather conditions.
The story of this aircraft, which introduced a whole new concept to air combat, covers the development of the V/STOL system into a practical asset as well as the Harrier’s operational service in regional conflicts in Europe and the Middle East with both the USMC and RAF, and in the Falklands Campaign with the RAF and FAA.
