BAe Harriers GR7/9 of RAF No 1 Sqn Cottesmore retuning to RAF Kinloss Moray Scotland whilst on TLT exercise. SCO 5564
The Harrier GR9 is a heavily updated development of the existing GR7, incorporating the ability to use a wide range of advanced precision weaponry, new communications, and systems and airframe upgrades. Integration and clearance of these weapons will allow the RAF to hit a wider range of targets harder, at longer range and with less risk to aircrew. The first improved aircraft will equip Joint Force Harrier squadrons that will be crewed by both Royal Air Force and Royal Navy personnel, following the withdrawal from service of Royal Navy Sea Harrier aircraft. MoD plans a force of four front-line squadrons and one Operational Conversion Unit. The RAF is expected to supply air and ground crew for two of the front-line squadrons and the RN for the other two while the OCU will be jointly crewed. Alongside the GR9 upgrade programme, some aircraft are being fitted with more powerful engines to enable them to perform better in extremely hot climates, which degrade the performance of the existing Pegasus Mk105 turbofan. Aircraft with the improved engine will be designated GR9A. Total projected MoD expenditure on Harrier upgrades, which will be fully realised when the fleet of about 70 aircraft is at GR9 standard, is about £500 million. Under a £100 million contract awarded to BAE Systems in 2004, new digital weapons that will be integrated onto the GR9 will include the advanced Global Positioning System and laser-guided Paveway IV bomb, and infrared and television variants of the Maverick missile to achieve high precision ground attack capabilities.
Size: 5433px × 3860px
Location: RAF Kinloss Air Station Morayshire Scotland UK.
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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