The Harrier has the capability to operate from short [relatively unprepared] strips using STOL, unlike the Tornado and other types that need a long, clean, runway.
So the GR7/9 can fly off a ship, carry out a strike and refuel/re-arm at a FOB which could be, for example, on a short piece of road.
If the fully-loaded ac launches from a carrier and does not complete the mission for some reason, it may not have the performance to land back on without jettisoning the stores; it can, however, land at a FARP [Forward Arming And Refuelling] point, thus saving munitions for re-use. This can be a spot, far forward [even forward of the FEBA], set up with the Tac Logs outfit, also refuelling and rebriefing from a Chinook or Herc refueller - Air Launched Arming And Refueling [ALARP] point.
Flexibility is the key to air power...
Last edited by FJJP; 28th Sep 2005 at 21:55.