Originally Posted by
Stitchbitch
The AV8B+ is already a AMRAAM equipped BVR- Harrier. It’s no F35 but it would be a cheap readily available force multiplier whilst more F35s/F16s are produced to meet demand.
Nobody is disputing that. The article mentions upgrading the old USMC jets with AESA and modern weapons. It would be a huge expense for a modest increase in capability. This is for a China vs Taiwan scenario - 50 Harriers won't make a difference (and that's once you've thrown good money at buying, upgrading and training your Air Force to operate a capability that's brand new to them). It's a complete red herring IMO.