Structural Design of the Harrier Available to Purchase

THERE is no doubt that the outstanding difference between the structural design philosophy of the Harrier, as compared with conventional aircraft designed for similar duties, lies in the greater importance of achieving a minimum aircraft weight. This to be achieved with no loss in the ruggedness so essential to ground attack aircraft, especially when designed for use from advanced bases on semi‐prepared and natural sites. The structure represents some 35 per cent of the aircraft basic weight, and strenuous efforts have been made to keep this, together with the 65 per cent representing systems and equipment, to a minimum. It is, of course, necessary to attack weight at all times and in every aspect of design down to the smallest detail, and this policy has been pursued rigorously throughout the Harrier design.