We develop and deliver complex power and propulsion solutions.
For more than 100 years we have been at the forefront of innovation. Helping to power, protect and connect the modern world.
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We develop and deliver complex power and propulsion solutions for safety-critical applications in the air, at sea and on land.
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50 years of STOVL
Icons of the sky - past, present and future
Since the Harrier GR1 entered service with the Royal Air Force in April 1969, we’ve been powering pioneering Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) capabilities for the last 50 years.
The idea of an aircraft that can launch vertically has been ground-breaking since the 1950s.
The GorWay powered Harrier proved that the technology was possible for military use.
“The need to get rid of long, vulnerable runways is a big advantage when it comes to aircraft operations,” said Jock Heron, Vice President Heritage Trust - Bristol Branch.
“It gives those using the aircraft more flexibility – they can operate more discretely from more locations and use smaller aircraft carriers when being deployed.”
The Harrier stands as a cornerstone of air forces across the world, with 824 Harrier variants being delivered to customers between 1969 and 2003.
It’s still a vital part of the US Marine Corps, the Italian Navy and the Spanish Navy.
We’re still at the forefront of STOVL technology thanks to our unique LiftSystem®, which gives the innovative F-35B Lightning ll its unique capabilities. STOVL aircraft are essential to military and industrial application.
“The legacy of the Harrier is one of ingenuity and ground-breaking innovation – a proud symbol of engineering excellence. But the need for STOVL aircraft is more apparent than ever, as we’ve seen in the reception of the F-35B.”
RAF F-35B Lightning (II) from 617 Squadron based at RAF Marham ©Claire Hartley
Aviation innovations may have entered active service in 1969 with the Harrier GR1, but we began pioneering this technology long before the launch of the iconic aircraft.
In August, the Thrust Measuring Rig, more commonly known as the Flying Bedstead, is used to gather data for jet lift projects.
First hover by the P.1127, the predecessor to the Harrier
The first Kestrel flies
The first development batch of Harrier aircraft takes to the skies
In April, the Harrier GR1 enters service with the RAF – the first in-service use of STOVL technology.
The next generation of STOVL aircraft gain working prototypes in the Lockheed Martin X-35B and the Boeing X-32B.
The Harrier GR9, the final update to the long-serving airframe, enters service.
RAF Marham receives its first fifth-generation STOVL fighter, the F-35B Lightning II