Q&A · 2:29:31-2:29:38

Why Harrier was not the carrier's ASW aircraft

A brief question distinguishes the Sea Harrier's combat role from helicopter-based anti-submarine warfare.

Anti-Submarine Warfare Carrier Air Groups Sea Harrier Sea King Helicopters

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Question

How capable was the Harrier in anti-submarine warfare?

Short answer

It was not suitable for that role; Sea King helicopters provided the carrier group's practical ASW capability.

Notes

Harrier was not a suitable anti-submarine platform, so that role belonged to the Sea King. Fixed-wing fleet air defence required different aircraft from the endurance, sensors, and dipping-sonar work assigned to ASW helicopters.