Harrier Program

Our Harrier program is focused on returning the sky the world’s VTOL fighter. The program exposes our team to a range of real-world engineering problems and provides valuable insight into all aspects of the design and systems.

THE HARRIER STORY

The Harrier has been the world’s only truly successful VTOL fighter. It was developed in response to a NATO requirement for a platform capable of dispersed operations, immune from runway attack, and capable of operating close to the front line from disused roads and fields. The aircraft in the form of the Harrier AV-8B still flies today with the US marines as well as Italy and Spain.

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AVT HARRIERS

Expanding our VTOL expertise

In 2015, we acquired Australia’s first VTOL fighter — a twin-seat Harrier T4 — beginning a journey that has greatly enhanced our knowledge and understanding of the platform. Since that time, we refurbished one aircraft for display at the 2017 Australian International Airshow, and have acquired a single-seat FA2 Sea Harrier that we plan to return to the air with the support former of former RN and RAF engineers and crew, Bendigo Aircraft Maintenance and the UK based organisation NAVY WINGS that the aircraft is an associate member of.  Find out more about our program below.

Sea Harrier FA2 ZH799

Russ Smith – RNAS Yeovilton 1996

Sea Harrier FA2 ZH799 is being restored to airworthy condition, with updated avionics and HUMS complementing the existing instrumentation.

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Harrier T4 XW271

Harrier T4 XW271 restored for the Australian Avalon Airshow in 2016.

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OUR ENGINE

Rolls-Royce Pegasus 106

The Rolls Royce Pegasus engine lies at the heart of the Harrier. Producing 30,000 hp and 21,500 lbf it was one of the highest thrust engines in its class. Harriers held time to climb records up until 1989.

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