Difference between revisions of "AV-8C"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "New Power"]]. Like all members of the [[Harrier (Family)|Harrier family]], the AV-8C is a [[VTOL]] aircraft with thrust vectoring nozzles, which allow it to take off and land vertically.
+
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) adopted the [[AV-8A|AV-8A Harrier]] in 1971 for their amphibious operations, being part of the USMC's ambitious goals of utilizing the Harrier's V/STOL capabilities to operate from rudimentary airfields and smaller carriers while being able to provide close air support needed on land. Needs for improvements has the USMC seek out the more advanced Harrier II, but until enough number of Harrier II is available, the USMC sought to improve their AV-8A fleet with upgrades and improvements to keep them relevant. In 1979, 47 AV-8A were selected for improvements into the AV-8C that saw the integration of a radar warning receiver (RWR) and countermeasures into the airframe, avionic upgrades, and service life extension. The AV-8C and preceding AV-8A variant would both be retired in 1987.
 +
 
 +
The AV-8C was introduced in the game in [[Update "New Power"]] along with its AV-8A predecessor. Like all members of the [[Harrier (Family)|Harrier family]], the AV-8C is a [[VTOL]] aircraft with thrust vectoring nozzles, which allow it to take off and land vertically. In terms of flight performance and air-to-air capabilities, the AV-8C is nearly unchanged from the AV-8A, but it contains new capabilities that players would appreciate over the AV-8A. Firstly, the countermeasure dispenser is now integrated into the aircraft, and while this doesn't give as many countermeasures as the pod in the AV-8A, it does free up a hard point for munitions rather than a countermeasure pod. The AV-8C also comes with a RWR, allowing players to better be able to assess if they are being tracked by a radar. These new capabilities augment the AV-8C into a more capable strike fighters to assess the airspace and destroy the target more easily.
 +
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 32: Line 35:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
|1,161||1,152||31.5||32.0||106.1||87.0
+
| 1,161 || 1,152 || 31.5 || 32.0 || 106.1 || 87.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 118: Line 121:
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 +
|-
 +
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 +
|-
 +
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
 +
|-
 +
|}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
Line 125: Line 137:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 2 x 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons, belly-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
+
* A choice between two presets:
 +
** 2 x 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons, belly-mounted (130 rpg = 260 total)
 +
** 2 x 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons + 60 x countermeasures
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)}}
 
−
{{main|AIM-9G Sidewinder|FFAR Mighty Mouse|Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="9%" | 1 !! width="9%" | 2 !! width="9%" | 3 !! width="9%" | 4 !! width="9%" | 5
 +
| rowspan="10" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_Harrier_GR.3.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk 77 mod 4 incendiary]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 +
| 7, 19 || 7, 19 || || 7, 19 || 7, 19
 +
|-
 +
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
 +
| 4 || 4 || || 4 || 4
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9G Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
−
* 5 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (1,250 lb total)
 
−
* 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs + 3 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (3,500 lb total)
 
 
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
 
* 28 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 28 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
 
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 3 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (750 lb total)
+
* 5 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (1,250 lb total)
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 3 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (1,500 lb total)
+
* 5 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (1,250 lb total)
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 2 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (2,000 lb total)
+
* 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 2 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs + 1 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bomb (2,500 lb total)
+
* 5 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (2,500 lb total)
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 14 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
* 2 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (2,000 lb total)
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
* 5 x Mk 77 mod 4 incendiary bombs
−
* 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
+
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
Line 158: Line 203:
 
'''When air to air:'''
 
'''When air to air:'''
  
−
The Harrier has access to AIM-9G Sidewinder air to air missiles capable of taking down all enemy aircraft in the game. It should be noted that the AIM-9G is a rear-aspect lock-on missile, meaning the Harrier must be behind the enemy aircraft to be able to launch the missile.
+
The Harrier has access to AIM-9G Sidewinder rear-aspect IR air-to-air missiles. The AIM-9G has decent range and maneuverability with a top speed of Mach 2.5 and 18G's of pull. This combined with its uncaged seeker should make it one's primary weapon in air-to-air. The AIM-9G has a surprisingly long effective range of 1 to 3 miles even against targets who are mildly maneuvering or gaining distance away from you. You can use this to ambush players who do not suspect that you are in range for a shot and thus are not flaring or pulling defensive maneuvers. Though try to ensure that your shot is as straight line as possible as to not waste the missile's fuel and allow it to reach its max speed. Be mindful that the missile is heavier than previous variants. This makes it difficult to use in short range engagements as its ability to turn with maneuvering opponents can be compromised at tight angles. As a rule, if you are in gun range or just outside of it, use your guns only. The AIM-9G is also easy to spoof with flares. If your opponent is aware of you/pre-flaring, do not take the shot as you can only carry two missiles and without them the Harrier is forced to knife fight with its guns while many other fighters will still have missiles. Be careful when friendlies are nearby as well as the AIM-G can attack them if they get in between you and an enemy. The Harrier's 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons are devastating to any aircraft that you can hit with them. Their large caliber causes them to travel slower and drop more than other rounds so be prepared to compensate. The guns are also belly-mounted which leads to even more bullet drop. Aim high and be disciplined on your trigger as your ammo count is not high but your rate of fire is.
 +
 
 +
'''Thrust Vectoring in Forward Flight (VIFFing)''':
 +
 
 +
The Harrier can only be used to its full potential if one learns to take advantage of its ability to vector its thrust. This is an advanced technique that will require practice and proper key binding configuration but the end result will pay off. VIFFing has multiple applications during dogfighting that greatly increase the maneuverability of the the Harrier. Percentages denote amount of downward vector. Past 90% the AV8-C's vectors go beyond 90 degrees down and actually go 10 degrees forward causing rearward thrust. Offensively it can be used to increase your turn rate (20%), angle of attack (20-60%), lower your stall speed to energy trap (as required), and be used as an extra air-brake (100%). Defensively it can be used to force opponents to overshoot (20-80%), slow your groundspeed to win rolling scissor fights (20-100%), execute high G turns (80%) and reduce attack angles for missile shots (20-60%). Keep in mind that any amount of VIFFing will slow you down and make you vulnerable to attack by any nearby enemies so these maneuvers are best used in dogfight duels. You can still use this as an advantage as the Harrier has outstanding thrust to weight/acceleration so you can stop and then quickly regain energy.  
  
−
''When facing enemy bombers:''
+
'''When facing enemy bombers:'''  
  
 
Enemy bombers are the easiest targets for the Harrier both in gun strafe and when using missiles as they lack agility when dogfighting against the Harrier and countermeasures such as flares to be able to counter the missiles. It is unlikely to face enemy bombers besides the [[Vautour IIA IDF/AF (France)|Vautour IIA IDF/AF]] as most of them stay at 8.0. AI-controlled bombers are the exception.
 
Enemy bombers are the easiest targets for the Harrier both in gun strafe and when using missiles as they lack agility when dogfighting against the Harrier and countermeasures such as flares to be able to counter the missiles. It is unlikely to face enemy bombers besides the [[Vautour IIA IDF/AF (France)|Vautour IIA IDF/AF]] as most of them stay at 8.0. AI-controlled bombers are the exception.
  
−
''When facing enemy attackers:''
+
'''When facing enemy attackers:'''
  
 
When facing player-controlled attackers (not neccesarily planes labelled as attackers but planes who focus on ground striking), the pilot must stay aware that, besides the Harrier superior mobility, they can outturn you as they will often fly at lower speeds than you, meaning their turn radius compared to yours will be much smaller. Most of the enemy planes that do CAS runs will often be enemy fighters (not labelled as attackers) but with ground ordnance, meaning they can or will be heavier than you, increasing drag and reducing agility when in a dogfight, use this as an advantage.
 
When facing player-controlled attackers (not neccesarily planes labelled as attackers but planes who focus on ground striking), the pilot must stay aware that, besides the Harrier superior mobility, they can outturn you as they will often fly at lower speeds than you, meaning their turn radius compared to yours will be much smaller. Most of the enemy planes that do CAS runs will often be enemy fighters (not labelled as attackers) but with ground ordnance, meaning they can or will be heavier than you, increasing drag and reducing agility when in a dogfight, use this as an advantage.
  
−
''As an attacker/bomber:''
+
'''As an attacker/bomber:'''
  
−
The Harrier has access to a wide variety of ground ordnance capable of destroying enemy ground units and bases. It also has access to CCIP ballistics computer (refer to [[Ballistic Computer]] for explanation) meaning the pilot has access to ground ordnance crosshairs which will increase ordnance accuracy, both rockets and bombs. It is not recommended to fly as a bomber (in terms of altitude) but fly as a tree cutter (as close to the ground as possible). This is recommended to achieve multiple things: radar interference, max speed, reduce enemy visibility and awareness. It also makes bombing easier without the need of ballistics computer (although it is recommended to use it since it will not require any practice). Time fuze MUST BE ADDED to avoid assault fuze explosion, risking your plane to be hit by the explosion causing a death. Ground striking ordnance should be taken at pilot's discretion, but it is recommended to take the 2 x 1000 lb and 3 x 500lb bombs in order to take a whole base completely and still maintain high speeds. It should be notted that you are unable to carry any sort of anti-air missiles with this payload.
+
The Harrier has access to a wide variety of ground ordnance capable of destroying enemy ground units and bases. It also has access to CCIP ballistics computer (refer to [[Ballistic Computer]] for explanation) meaning the pilot has access to ground ordnance crosshairs which will increase ordnance accuracy, both rockets and bombs. It is not recommended to fly as a bomber (in terms of altitude) but fly as a tree cutter (as close to the ground as possible). This is recommended to achieve multiple things: radar interference, max speed, reduce enemy visibility and awareness. It also makes bombing easier without the need of ballistics computer (although it is recommended to use it since it will not require any practice). Time fuze MUST BE ADDED to avoid assault fuze explosion, risking your plane to be hit by the explosion causing a death. Ground striking ordnance should be taken at pilot's discretion, but it is recommended to take the 2 x 1000 lb and 3 x 500lb bombs in order to take a whole base completely and still maintain high speeds. You are unable to carry any sort of anti-air missiles with this payload.
  
−
''*Note: radar interference is mostly irrelevant in air realistic battles as the plane will still be highlighted and enemy pilots could use eye aiming. However, it will interfere with radar homing missiles (SARH missiles such as AIM-7E, R-3R, etc carried by F-4 Phantoms and MiG-21's) and will be your main line of defence when flying in simulator battles, you will be able to fly stealthily if flying in tree cutting tactic.''
+
*Note: radar interference is mostly irrelevant in air realistic battles as the plane will still be highlighted and enemy pilots could use eye aiming. However, it will interfere with radar homing missiles (SARH missiles such as AIM-7E, R-3R, etc carried by F-4 Phantoms and MiG-21's) and will be your main line of defence when flying in simulator battles, you will be able to fly stealthily if flying in tree cutting tactic.
  
 
'''When in combined battles (ground realistic battles):'''
 
'''When in combined battles (ground realistic battles):'''
Line 178: Line 227:
 
This is where the Harrier is able to shine as an attacker, primarily using VTOL and hovering mode to an advantage (will be explained more detailed later). There is multiple loadouts which can be used in order to make the Harrier a scary attacker.
 
This is where the Harrier is able to shine as an attacker, primarily using VTOL and hovering mode to an advantage (will be explained more detailed later). There is multiple loadouts which can be used in order to make the Harrier a scary attacker.
  
−
''Bomb payload:''
+
'''Bomb payload:'''
  
 
This is often the most used payload for multiple reasons: has the biggest explosion radius compared to rockets, are more forgiving when missing by couple meters, can take multiple targets with a single bomb. The use of ballistics computer makes their aiming much easier than with eye aiming both in realistic and simulator battles. The x4 1000lb bombs are recommended as, if aimed correctly, will destroy one or multiple enemy targets with a single bomb, meaning you are able to get at least 2 kills (as bombs drop in pair)
 
This is often the most used payload for multiple reasons: has the biggest explosion radius compared to rockets, are more forgiving when missing by couple meters, can take multiple targets with a single bomb. The use of ballistics computer makes their aiming much easier than with eye aiming both in realistic and simulator battles. The x4 1000lb bombs are recommended as, if aimed correctly, will destroy one or multiple enemy targets with a single bomb, meaning you are able to get at least 2 kills (as bombs drop in pair)
  
−
''Rocket payload:''
+
'''Rocket payload:'''
  
 
This is the trickiest but most rewarding payload the Harrier can carry (rewarding as it is able to make much more kills than bombs). Tanks can be taken with one to three rocket salvos (launched in pairs, meaning with 2 to 6 rockets in total). This means you are able to get 12 kills (considering you take 6 rockets per tank) if you take the 76 x Might Mouse rocket payload.
 
This is the trickiest but most rewarding payload the Harrier can carry (rewarding as it is able to make much more kills than bombs). Tanks can be taken with one to three rocket salvos (launched in pairs, meaning with 2 to 6 rockets in total). This means you are able to get 12 kills (considering you take 6 rockets per tank) if you take the 76 x Might Mouse rocket payload.
  
−
''VTOL trick:''
+
'''VTOL trick:'''
  
 
Harrier can be used as a helicopter thanks to the VTOL capabilities, rockets are recommended if used like this. It is able to hide behind mountains, poke to attack and go back into cover as a helicopter would do. Handling this technique can be tricky and will require practice but is an alternate way of playing CAS.
 
Harrier can be used as a helicopter thanks to the VTOL capabilities, rockets are recommended if used like this. It is able to hide behind mountains, poke to attack and go back into cover as a helicopter would do. Handling this technique can be tricky and will require practice but is an alternate way of playing CAS.
−
 
−
''*Note: AIM-9G are not recommended to be taken in GRB as most of the air to air engagements will be within a kilometre range specially since the AIM-9G turn radious is really narrow, meaning enemy planes can be taken with the 30 mm ADEN autocannons or be taken by friendly SPAA. It is not recommended to use them against enemy helicopters either as the autocannons are sufficient for them.''
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 197: Line 244:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* VTOL capabilities
+
* Thrust vectoring capabilities, helpful in low-speed dogfights
−
* Versatile secondary weapons
+
* Insane thrust-to-weight ratio; superb acceleration and climb rate, and can sustain Mach 0.88 in level flight with just 50% throttle
 +
* Excellent roll rate
 +
* Strong flaps
 +
* Versatile secondary weapons consisting of air-to-air missiles, rockets, and bombs
 +
* AIM-9G sidewinders are good long range missiles
 +
* Has a ballistic computer for precision strikes
 +
* 30 mm ADEN cannons do high damage
 +
* High ammo count for the cannons
 +
* Has a [[HUD#410SUM1|Head-Up Display]] in the cockpit which provides flight information and weapon-aiming functionality
 +
* Has a radar warning receiver and countermeasures
 +
* Equipped with an engine fire extinguisher
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Subsonic
+
* Below average top speed (subsonic)
−
* Limited ordnance compared to conventional strike aircraft
+
* The engine has an insane overheating problem; running at 91% throttle is recommended to avoid overheating the engine
 +
* Limited maximum payload compared to conventional strike aircraft
 +
* Very poor energy retention; massive energy losses when turning
 +
* Below average turn rate
 +
* ADEN cannons have a low muzzle velocity and are belly-mounted, making some shots difficult
 +
* Guns are highly inaccurate when stock
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 222: Line 284:
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=av_8c Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 228: Line 293:
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
 +
;Related development
  
 
* [[AV-8A]]
 
* [[AV-8A]]

Latest revision as of 03:23, 20 August 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the American strike aircraft AV-8C. For other versions, see Harrier (Family).
AV-8C
av_8c.png
GarageImage AV-8C.jpg
AV-8C
USA flag.png USA
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.7 9.7 9.7
Class:
Research:220 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:620 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) adopted the AV-8A Harrier in 1971 for their amphibious operations, being part of the USMC's ambitious goals of utilizing the Harrier's V/STOL capabilities to operate from rudimentary airfields and smaller carriers while being able to provide close air support needed on land. Needs for improvements has the USMC seek out the more advanced Harrier II, but until enough number of Harrier II is available, the USMC sought to improve their AV-8A fleet with upgrades and improvements to keep them relevant. In 1979, 47 AV-8A were selected for improvements into the AV-8C that saw the integration of a radar warning receiver (RWR) and countermeasures into the airframe, avionic upgrades, and service life extension. The AV-8C and preceding AV-8A variant would both be retired in 1987.

The AV-8C was introduced in the game in Update "New Power" along with its AV-8A predecessor. Like all members of the Harrier family, the AV-8C is a VTOL aircraft with thrust vectoring nozzles, which allow it to take off and land vertically. In terms of flight performance and air-to-air capabilities, the AV-8C is nearly unchanged from the AV-8A, but it contains new capabilities that players would appreciate over the AV-8A. Firstly, the countermeasure dispenser is now integrated into the aircraft, and while this doesn't give as many countermeasures as the pod in the AV-8A, it does free up a hard point for munitions rather than a countermeasure pod. The AV-8C also comes with a RWR, allowing players to better be able to assess if they are being tracked by a radar. These new capabilities augment the AV-8C into a more capable strike fighters to assess the airspace and destroy the target more easily.


General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 0 m1 152 km/h
Turn time32 s
Max altitude12 192 m
EngineRolls-Royce F402-RR-402
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight13 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 0 m - sea level) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,143 1,137 12192 32.5 33.7 69.5 67.8 550
Upgraded 1,161 1,152 31.5 32.0 106.1 87.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1191 648 N/A 828 556 ~14 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 648 < 950 < 790 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic Mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Rolls-Royce F402-RR-402 1 5,918 kg 439 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 34m fuel
1,687 kg Vectored-thrust low-bypass turbofan 6,605 kg 7,292 kg 7,978 kg 8,253 kg 12,679 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 34m fuel MTOW
Stationary 9,071 kgf 9,625 kgf 1.46 1.32 1.21 1.17 0.76
Optimal 9,071 kgf
(0 km/h) 		9,625 kgf
(0 km/h) 		1.46 1.32 1.21 1.17 0.76
Msg-info.png The F402-RR-402 engine loses a significant amount of thrust as your speed increases

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural1 191 km/h
Gear648 km/h

The AV-8C has no armour. The engine and all fuel tanks are packed in a tight cluster in the centre of the fuselage.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 835 → 4 153 Sl icon.png
RB8 718 → 12 771 Sl icon.png
SB9 576 → 14 028 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications196 000 Rp icon.png
305 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training175 000 Sl icon.png
Experts620 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 600 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 010 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
100 / 310 / 600 % Sl icon.png
226 / 226 / 226 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
8 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
700 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
8 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
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Cost:
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aden_belt_pack
Research:
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Cost:
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Mk77 mod 4
Research:
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AERO-6
Research:
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Flares/Chaff
Research:
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Cost:
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Mk81
Research:
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AERO-7
Research:
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Cost:
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AIM-9G
Research:
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Cost:
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aden_new_gun
Research:
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Mk82
Research:
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Cost:
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LAU-10/A
Research:
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Cost:
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EFS
Research:
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Cost:
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Mk83
Research:
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Cost:
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Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs)
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png

Offensive armament

Main article: ADEN Mk.4 (30 mm)

The AV-8C is armed with:

  • A choice between two presets:
    • 2 x 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons, belly-mounted (130 rpg = 260 total)
    • 2 x 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons + 60 x countermeasures

Suspended armament

The AV-8C can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5
Hardpoints Harrier GR.3.png
250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs 1 1 1 1 1
250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs 1 1 1 1 1
500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs 1 1 1 1 1
500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs 1 1 1 1 1
1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs 1 1
Mk 77 mod 4 incendiary bombs 1 1 1 1 1
FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets 7, 19 7, 19 7, 19 7, 19
Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets 4 4 4 4
AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles 1 1
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 2 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
  • 28 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
  • 5 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (1,250 lb total)
  • 5 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (1,250 lb total)
  • 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
  • 5 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (2,500 lb total)
  • 2 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 5 x Mk 77 mod 4 incendiary bombs

Usage in battles

The AV-8C can be considered a multirole aircraft which can focus in air-to-air combat, air to ground combat and air to sea combat. Its firepower and ordnance make it a competitive aircraft in all game modes. The roles can be divided in such:

When air to air:

The Harrier has access to AIM-9G Sidewinder rear-aspect IR air-to-air missiles. The AIM-9G has decent range and maneuverability with a top speed of Mach 2.5 and 18G's of pull. This combined with its uncaged seeker should make it one's primary weapon in air-to-air. The AIM-9G has a surprisingly long effective range of 1 to 3 miles even against targets who are mildly maneuvering or gaining distance away from you. You can use this to ambush players who do not suspect that you are in range for a shot and thus are not flaring or pulling defensive maneuvers. Though try to ensure that your shot is as straight line as possible as to not waste the missile's fuel and allow it to reach its max speed. Be mindful that the missile is heavier than previous variants. This makes it difficult to use in short range engagements as its ability to turn with maneuvering opponents can be compromised at tight angles. As a rule, if you are in gun range or just outside of it, use your guns only. The AIM-9G is also easy to spoof with flares. If your opponent is aware of you/pre-flaring, do not take the shot as you can only carry two missiles and without them the Harrier is forced to knife fight with its guns while many other fighters will still have missiles. Be careful when friendlies are nearby as well as the AIM-G can attack them if they get in between you and an enemy. The Harrier's 30 mm ADEN Mk.4 cannons are devastating to any aircraft that you can hit with them. Their large caliber causes them to travel slower and drop more than other rounds so be prepared to compensate. The guns are also belly-mounted which leads to even more bullet drop. Aim high and be disciplined on your trigger as your ammo count is not high but your rate of fire is.

Thrust Vectoring in Forward Flight (VIFFing):

The Harrier can only be used to its full potential if one learns to take advantage of its ability to vector its thrust. This is an advanced technique that will require practice and proper key binding configuration but the end result will pay off. VIFFing has multiple applications during dogfighting that greatly increase the maneuverability of the the Harrier. Percentages denote amount of downward vector. Past 90% the AV8-C's vectors go beyond 90 degrees down and actually go 10 degrees forward causing rearward thrust. Offensively it can be used to increase your turn rate (20%), angle of attack (20-60%), lower your stall speed to energy trap (as required), and be used as an extra air-brake (100%). Defensively it can be used to force opponents to overshoot (20-80%), slow your groundspeed to win rolling scissor fights (20-100%), execute high G turns (80%) and reduce attack angles for missile shots (20-60%). Keep in mind that any amount of VIFFing will slow you down and make you vulnerable to attack by any nearby enemies so these maneuvers are best used in dogfight duels. You can still use this as an advantage as the Harrier has outstanding thrust to weight/acceleration so you can stop and then quickly regain energy.

When facing enemy bombers:

Enemy bombers are the easiest targets for the Harrier both in gun strafe and when using missiles as they lack agility when dogfighting against the Harrier and countermeasures such as flares to be able to counter the missiles. It is unlikely to face enemy bombers besides the Vautour IIA IDF/AF as most of them stay at 8.0. AI-controlled bombers are the exception.

When facing enemy attackers:

When facing player-controlled attackers (not neccesarily planes labelled as attackers but planes who focus on ground striking), the pilot must stay aware that, besides the Harrier superior mobility, they can outturn you as they will often fly at lower speeds than you, meaning their turn radius compared to yours will be much smaller. Most of the enemy planes that do CAS runs will often be enemy fighters (not labelled as attackers) but with ground ordnance, meaning they can or will be heavier than you, increasing drag and reducing agility when in a dogfight, use this as an advantage.

As an attacker/bomber:

The Harrier has access to a wide variety of ground ordnance capable of destroying enemy ground units and bases. It also has access to CCIP ballistics computer (refer to Ballistic Computer for explanation) meaning the pilot has access to ground ordnance crosshairs which will increase ordnance accuracy, both rockets and bombs. It is not recommended to fly as a bomber (in terms of altitude) but fly as a tree cutter (as close to the ground as possible). This is recommended to achieve multiple things: radar interference, max speed, reduce enemy visibility and awareness. It also makes bombing easier without the need of ballistics computer (although it is recommended to use it since it will not require any practice). Time fuze MUST BE ADDED to avoid assault fuze explosion, risking your plane to be hit by the explosion causing a death. Ground striking ordnance should be taken at pilot's discretion, but it is recommended to take the 2 x 1000 lb and 3 x 500lb bombs in order to take a whole base completely and still maintain high speeds. You are unable to carry any sort of anti-air missiles with this payload.

  • Note: radar interference is mostly irrelevant in air realistic battles as the plane will still be highlighted and enemy pilots could use eye aiming. However, it will interfere with radar homing missiles (SARH missiles such as AIM-7E, R-3R, etc carried by F-4 Phantoms and MiG-21's) and will be your main line of defence when flying in simulator battles, you will be able to fly stealthily if flying in tree cutting tactic.

When in combined battles (ground realistic battles):

This is where the Harrier is able to shine as an attacker, primarily using VTOL and hovering mode to an advantage (will be explained more detailed later). There is multiple loadouts which can be used in order to make the Harrier a scary attacker.

Bomb payload:

This is often the most used payload for multiple reasons: has the biggest explosion radius compared to rockets, are more forgiving when missing by couple meters, can take multiple targets with a single bomb. The use of ballistics computer makes their aiming much easier than with eye aiming both in realistic and simulator battles. The x4 1000lb bombs are recommended as, if aimed correctly, will destroy one or multiple enemy targets with a single bomb, meaning you are able to get at least 2 kills (as bombs drop in pair)

Rocket payload:

This is the trickiest but most rewarding payload the Harrier can carry (rewarding as it is able to make much more kills than bombs). Tanks can be taken with one to three rocket salvos (launched in pairs, meaning with 2 to 6 rockets in total). This means you are able to get 12 kills (considering you take 6 rockets per tank) if you take the 76 x Might Mouse rocket payload.

VTOL trick:

Harrier can be used as a helicopter thanks to the VTOL capabilities, rockets are recommended if used like this. It is able to hide behind mountains, poke to attack and go back into cover as a helicopter would do. Handling this technique can be tricky and will require practice but is an alternate way of playing CAS.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Thrust vectoring capabilities, helpful in low-speed dogfights
  • Insane thrust-to-weight ratio; superb acceleration and climb rate, and can sustain Mach 0.88 in level flight with just 50% throttle
  • Excellent roll rate
  • Strong flaps
  • Versatile secondary weapons consisting of air-to-air missiles, rockets, and bombs
  • AIM-9G sidewinders are good long range missiles
  • Has a ballistic computer for precision strikes
  • 30 mm ADEN cannons do high damage
  • High ammo count for the cannons
  • Has a Head-Up Display in the cockpit which provides flight information and weapon-aiming functionality
  • Has a radar warning receiver and countermeasures
  • Equipped with an engine fire extinguisher

Cons:

  • Below average top speed (subsonic)
  • The engine has an insane overheating problem; running at 91% throttle is recommended to avoid overheating the engine
  • Limited maximum payload compared to conventional strike aircraft
  • Very poor energy retention; massive energy losses when turning
  • Below average turn rate
  • ADEN cannons have a low muzzle velocity and are belly-mounted, making some shots difficult
  • Guns are highly inaccurate when stock

History

Predecessor: AV-8A Harrier

The AV-8A Harrier was an American version of the British Harrier GR.1 that entered service with the Marine Corps. Congress approved the purchase of 114 Harriers in 1970. Marine Attack Squadron 513 (VMA-513) was the first squadron to receive its Harriers, with the delivery taking place in March 1971; VMA-231 and VMA-542 received their AV-8As next.

It was mostly similar to the Harrier GR.1, but had a number of changes. All magnesium components were replaced in order to prevent corrosion. American identification friend or foe (IFF) systems and radio equipment were fitted. The British GR.1 was fitted with the Ferranti FE541 inertial navigation/attack suite, but these were replaced in the USMC Harriers by a simpler Interface/Weapon Aiming Computer.

The outer wing pylons were modified to allow the carrying of AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles (AAMs). The AV-8A also utilized a more powerful version of the Rolls-Royce Pegasus than on the GR.1, the Mk 103 (called F402-RR-402 by the Americans).

AV-8C Harrier

47 AV-8A Harriers were upgraded to the AV-8C standard starting in 1979. Inertial navigation system equipment was added and the Lift Improvement Devices were also improved. Various components were also restored or replaced to increase the service life of the aircraft. The ECM capability was bolstered with the addition of the ALR-45F/APR-43 radar warning receiver and ALE-39 countermeasures dispenser. An AN/ALE-37 chaff-dispenser pod could be carried on a hardpoint.

Media

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See also

Related development

External links


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