Photo By Cpl. Scott L. Tomaszycki | An AV-8B Harrier training aircraft with Marine Attack Training Squadron 203 takes off...... read more read more
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MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - As an attack jet geared toward supporting the infantryman on the ground, the AV/8B Harrier has one technological feature that stands out – its ability to take off and land much like a helicopter. But how does this non rotor-powered fixed-wing aircraft do it?
The Harrier uses an ability known as VSTOL – vertical and/or short takeoff and landing – to hover above the ground. According to Gunnery Sgt. Clinton R. Rasmusson, the powerline division chief for Marine Attack Squadron 542, “VSTOL technology isn’t very complex, but has a lot of moving parts.”
Rasmusson said the Harrier’s massive Rolls Royce Pegasus engine produces about 22,000 pounds of thrust, which can be directed down with four nozzles. When this happens, panels on the sides of the engine intakes open up to draw in extra air and a reaction control system maintains stability.
When it’s hovering, it needs more air because it’s not flying straight with air being forced into the engine intakes, Rasmusson said. There are auxiliary doors on the side of the aircraft that open up when it’s not moving forward.
Rasmusson explained that the Harrier depends on one unique and extraordinarily powerful engine, and it takes a dedicated team of hardworking professionals to keep the aircraft in the fight.
“Maintainer wise, we’ve got smart guys,” Rasmusson said. “Marines love working on this aircraft because of what a challenge it is.”
The pilots at the helm say it’s an invaluable platform that has been saving lives on the ground in Afghanistan.
“The ability of the aircraft allows us to use expeditionary airfields and shorter runways,” said Capt. David W. Fickle, a pilot for Marine Attack Squadron 231.
Fickle said the ability to take off and land from shorter, expeditionary airfields allows the Harriers in Afghanistan to project their power, bringing it closer to the coalition and Afghan forces on the ground that need it.
“The Harrier is a machine that was built for the primary purpose of close-air support and we pride ourselves in being the best at close-air support,” said Fickle.
| Date Taken: | 03.19.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 03.23.2012 10:50 |
| Story ID: | 85694 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, US |
| Web Views: | 142 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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