Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 4:08:24-4:09:02

Why did the Sea Harrier have better fighter prospects than the Yak-38?

Beyond-visual-range weapons gave the later Sea Harrier a chance that the Yak-38 lacked.

Beyond Visual Range CombatNaval AviationSea HarrierYak 38 Forger
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Question

Was taking a Yak-38 against a powerful fighter any worse than taking a Harrier against a MiG-29 or Su-27?

Short answer

Yes in this comparison: the later Sea Harrier had beyond-visual-range weapons and good missiles, while the assessment of first-generation Sea Harriers is more cautious.

Notes

The Sea Harrier Mark II had beyond-visual-range capability and effective missiles, giving it a chance against more capable opponents. That equipment is the reason offered for treating a Harrier engagement differently from sending up a Yak-38. The judgment is more cautious for first-generation Sea Harriers against the Soviet fighters named in the question.