AV-8B HARRIER II PLUS;

Delivered from 1981, the AV-8B replaced the AV-8A's in the US Marine Corps. Initially, the AV-8B was powered by the the Pegasus MK.105 aka F402-Rolls Royce-406 , rated at 96 kN, although only for 15 seconds at take-off - unlimited thrust was 66 kN). Especially in hot conditions, the AV-8B proved to be seriously underpowered when bringing back unused weapons back to the ship, landing vertically. From 1991, Harriers were therefore delivered with the higher thrustPegasus 11-61 aka F402-Rolls Royce-408, rated at 106 kN and equipped with Digital Engine Control System. Later, theF402-Rolls Royce-408A was introduced, greatly improving reliability and maintenance issues.

A further American development was first flown in 1987. The initial AV-8B was only suitable for daylight operations, hence the non-officialAV-8B DA (from Day Attack) designation. TheAV-8B Night Attack, with FLIR sensor on the nose, night-vision-goggle compatible cockpit lightning, chaff-flare dispensers on the fuselage behind the wings. Because of that the air intake on the tail plane root was extended. A further development of the AV-8B Night Attack is the AV-8+ Harrier II Plus, from Radar Aircraft), which was first flown in 1992. In a 17 inch lengthened nose, the Rayhteon (Hughes) AN/APG-65(V2) radar, making the aircraft capable to fire theAIM-120 AMRAAM missile. The FLIR sensor was relocated closer to the cockpit. Eventually all Harriers are to be modified accordingly. Exports of this type were Italy (16 ordered) Spain (designatedEAV-8B. Both Italy and Spain upgraded their AV-8Bs to AV-8B+ standard, the Spanish model becoming EAV-8B+, powered by the Pegasus 408A turbofan.

Twee uitvoeringen mogelijk;