§ Mr. McFallTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the differences in role, mission assignment and capability between the Jaguar and Harrier in Royal Air Force service.
§ Mr. HanleyThe Jaguar and new Harrier GR7 fulfil similar roles. Both aircraft have a long range air-interdiction capability; they are capable of all offensive support missions and are assigned to NATO in that role. While the Jaguar is currently more capable in the tactical reconnaissance role, the Harrier possesses a longer range, greater weapons carriage capability and a modern avionics suite with an operational under-the-weather night capability. Also the Harrier has unique ship-borne operational capability.