X-Plane.Org Forum: McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II - X-Plane.Org Forum

After 5 years of the AV-8A (and the improved C variant), the USMC wanted more out of their Harriers. They initiatied the AV-16 programme - so called because the aim was to double the range and payload of the Harrier. Over the pond, the RAF had improved their GR1s to GR3s, and were now looking for better performance. Hawker had designed the P1214 and P1216 in response, in addition to a more modest improvement to the Harrier - adding a bigger wing to the Sea Harrier FRS1.

The two programmes were merged to develop the Harrier II. The UK pulled out of the programme citing differences in role; they had however probably blown all their budget on Rolls Royce getting the Pegasus PCB (afterburning) to work. McDonnell Douglas continued the programme alone and produced the AV-8B entering into service in 1985. The UK re-initiated their second generation Harrier programme a few years later. Many improvements that MDD had designed were licenced by BAe, and the similar GR5 entered service at the same time as the AV-8B.

The x-plane is a evolution of Jacques Braults AV-8B, featuring changes to the fuselage, artificial stability, weapons, cockpit and paint-work amongst others. It's painted in the USMC colors.

Enjoy!!

Updates:
- 5th April; sorting typos!!