McDonnell Douglas / BAE Systems AV-8B Harrier II

shaydis13 🇺🇸

27 Mar 2026 · © shaydis13

AV-8B Harrier II at NAF El Centro.

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McDonnell Douglas / BAE Systems AV-8B Harrier II

Aircraft

AV-8B Harrier II AV8B

Military grey tactical scheme

Manufacturer

McDonnell Douglas / BAE Systems

Gear

Nikon D800 200-500mm

Achievements

Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Airbus Aficionado, Military Maverick

4 badges earned

Location

El Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field)

NJK/KNJK

32.8292, -115.6720

Open map

El Centro NAF Airport (Vraciu Field) NJK

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

The AV-8B Harrier II is a second-generation V/STOL (vertical/short takeoff and landing) jet, crucial for USMC and Royal Navy operations from smaller ships and forward bases since the 1980s.

Fleet Rarity

This is a rare aircraft now, as the type is being withdrawn and replaced by the F-35B. Few remain active, mostly in the USMC.

Record Flights

Unique for its V/STOL operations on amphibious assault ships and in field conditions.

Safety & Events

The Harrier series is well known for its challenging flight characteristics; the AV-8B has seen combat in the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere.

Future Outlook

Being phased out; retired from most non-USMC operators. Will be replaced by F-35B.

Specifications

Rolls-Royce F402-RR-408 (Pegasus 11-61)

Engine

9.25 m

Wingspan

14.12 m

Length

3,527 km (with external tanks)

Range

865 km/h

Speed

Pilot only (single-seat configuration)

Capacity

14,061 kg

MTOW

3.55 m

Height

106 kN (23,800 lbf) with water injection

Thrust

Not certified (military); typically exceeds 120 dB at close range

Noise