Harrier GR7A Programme Brought To Successful Conclusion
13 Jun 2005
BAE Systems’ final clearance for the Harrier GR7A aircraft was completed at the end of May.
The GR7A features an uprated, lower-maintenance Rolls-Royce Pegasus engine which develops an extra 3,000 lbs thrust above 30 degrees centigrade. This extra power allows the all-up weight of the aircraft to be increased from 32,000 to 34,000lbs and improves its performance, particularly under hot conditions.
Speaking about the capability of the aircraft Wg Cmdr Gary Waterfall said: “The programme has improved the capability of the aircraft to the extent that the GR7A is currently the aircraft of choice for operations in Afghanistan and the Gulf.”
BAE Systems Customer Solutions & Support was contracted to develop the GR7A in December 2001. Since then it has been a pilot contract for developing new processes within Harrier including contract status reviews and life cycle management.
Speaking about the programme, head of Harrier capability Andy Lavin said: “To make sure that any issues on the GR7A programme don’t become a problem on future contracts such as the GR9 programme, the teams have met on a regular basis to share learning.
“The GR7A programme has shown how collaboration between BAE Systems, the Harrier IPT, Rolls Royce, QinetiQ and other stakeholders can effectively deliver significant capability to the end user.”
“The Design Authority for Production Aircraft (DACPA) 3.3 marks the end of a programme which has consistently been delivered on time and to cost.”
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, fighting vehicles, radar, avionics, communications, electronics and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.
BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company has more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of over 13 billion through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations.
For further information, please contact:
Mike Sweeney, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0)1772 856034 Fax : +44 (0) 1772 852713
mike.sweeney2@baesystems.com
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