So, in an attempt to summarise. Even the uber T12A would have to deal with restrictive CofG limitations that would make drop offs/pick ups very "tricky". Coming off the tanker with full tanks would only give 340nm to the landing point using low level penetration, and if you could go high level why use a Harrier anyway, just parachute in - then after the 340nm flight what exactly was the T12A supposed to burn for the return journey ?
Am I close ?
Also, I never did notice anyone mention what a T12A could VTOL lift in terms of fuel, 2 (empty ?) drop tanks, and 2 crew on an average soviet sunny day in the remote Russian Steppes, assuming of course that 007 had made his way to the rendezvous on a stolen moped - but that would be interesting if anyone has a lbs estimate?