The BAE Harrier

While there were many experiments with "vertical take off & landing (VTOL)" combat aircraft during the Cold War, during the 20th century only one went on to operational status in the West -- the Harrier. A British development, to which the Americans later made contributions, the Harrier has in its over 30 years of operation been one of the most interesting flying machines in the West's military arsenal. This document provides a history and description of the Harrier.