Harrier GR9

21 May 2007

Revolutionary vertical take-off multi-role combat aircraft

Overview

Harrier GR9 is a single seat, multi-role combat aircraft that is capable of operating in extreme environments. The Joint Upgrade & Maintenance Programme (JUMP) combines maintenance combines the upgrading of the aircraft from GR7 to the GR9 standard. Joint RAF / Royal Navy / BAE Systems team work alongside each other at RAF Cottesmore. Partnership approach to upgrade Harrier fleet from GR7 to GR9 reduces costs and improving availability to front line.

Key Facts/Figures

The GR9 entered service with the RAF in September 2006, on schedule to a date set five years previously The MAS GR9 team have met or exceeded every milestone on the programme for the last five years. Harrier GR9 are providing close air support to coalition ground forces in Afghanistan.

Performance

• GR7 to GR9 upgrade timelines reduced from 52 weeks to 35
• Will reduce the total number of aircraft undergoing maintenance and/or upgrade at any one time
• Savings of £44 million of the customer’s budget
• The last of the 24 GR9s was delivered ahead of contract and 5 weeks ahead of In Service Date (ISD) from the JUMP line

Background

• The upgraded GR9 hits harder, from a greater distance, at less risk to the crew
• The current versions of the Harrier are the pilot-only GR9 and the two-seat T10 which, when not used as a training aircraft, can also be used in combat
• Contract awarded by UK MoD to integrate Lockheed Martin’s Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod on Harrier GR9 and provide Operational Emergency Clearance advice

For more information click here: Sniper Pod Contract Win