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10/10/2006
MoD unveils new Harrier jets
The Ministry of Defence has unveiled the latest version of the Harrier strike jet.
The upgraded Harrier GR9 aircraft has entered service with the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, following a half-billion pound improvement package.
The MoD said that the upgrade meant that the Harrier craft is capable of vertical landing and take-off with state-of-the-art new technology - doubling its effectiveness as a precision ground attack aircraft. The upgrades will also allow the aircraft to use advanced new precision weaponry, new communications and avionics systems.
Sixty-nine of the single-seater aircraft will be delivered under the incremental programme, which is being carried out by BAE systems in partnership with the MoD at RAF Cottermore.
Defence Minister Adam Ingram said: "The Harrier has proved itself time and time again as an excellent aircraft - from the Falklands conflict to current operations in Afghanistan, but we are always improving our capabilities and the integration of this technology will allow the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy to hit a wider range of targets at longer range, with greater precision and at less risk to our aircrew than ever before."
The MoD's decision to carry out the upgrades at the base, instead of at a purpose-built facility in Wales, was opposed by unions.
The MoD had argued that it would enable aircraft to be delivered to the frontline quicker, but the move was criticised by a financial watchdog.
The department could also face an employment tribunal over claims by the Amicus union that it acted unlawfully in sacking hundreds of workers at St Athan in South Wales.
(KMcA)
The upgraded Harrier GR9 aircraft has entered service with the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, following a half-billion pound improvement package.
The MoD said that the upgrade meant that the Harrier craft is capable of vertical landing and take-off with state-of-the-art new technology - doubling its effectiveness as a precision ground attack aircraft. The upgrades will also allow the aircraft to use advanced new precision weaponry, new communications and avionics systems.
Sixty-nine of the single-seater aircraft will be delivered under the incremental programme, which is being carried out by BAE systems in partnership with the MoD at RAF Cottermore.
Defence Minister Adam Ingram said: "The Harrier has proved itself time and time again as an excellent aircraft - from the Falklands conflict to current operations in Afghanistan, but we are always improving our capabilities and the integration of this technology will allow the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy to hit a wider range of targets at longer range, with greater precision and at less risk to our aircrew than ever before."
The MoD's decision to carry out the upgrades at the base, instead of at a purpose-built facility in Wales, was opposed by unions.
The MoD had argued that it would enable aircraft to be delivered to the frontline quicker, but the move was criticised by a financial watchdog.
The department could also face an employment tribunal over claims by the Amicus union that it acted unlawfully in sacking hundreds of workers at St Athan in South Wales.
(KMcA)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Cloudy with longer spells of rain during the morning, this rain heavy at times. Generally brighter in the afternoon, but with scattered and at times heavy showers. Maximum temperature 14 °C.Tonight:A mainly dry evening and night with isolated showers dying out and some longer clear spells. Then it will cloud over towards morning with some heavy showers. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
