PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Decision to axe Harrier is "bonkers".
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Old 31st Oct 2010, 12:49
  #73 (permalink)  
LowObservable
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
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"By the time CV Dave operates from QE Class we'll have Ship JPALS with autoland (a la ACLS), hands-off to the deck so again, your fog bank argument is being dealt with for the future."

Very important. Note that the goal for UCAV (which nobody considers that hard) is equivalent safety to manned ops in clear daylight weather. However, it's therefore going to be safer at night and in poor viz, because the system isn't visual.

As for reliability: the jet is already completely reliant on computers and sensors to fly. The DGPS on the carrier is simple and light and can be duplicated to the ends of the earth.

Also, unlike ACLS, the system does not scream LOOK AT ME I'M A CARRIER all over the RF spectrum.

Logic drives you to all-automatic landings, all the time. Far less cost, far less wear and tear on the jets, and much easier for mixed sea-based/land-based forces.
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