Navy Aviation: AV-8B Harrier Remanufacture Strategy is Not the Most Cost-Effective Option.

Introduced in 1993, the AV-8B aircraft wIth night attack and radar capabilities enhances pilots abilities to locate and destroy targets under conditions of marginal weather, limited visibility smoke, dust, or haze, and darkness. The two previously produced models had significant limitations. The day attack model, the first version of the aircraft procured by the U.S. Marines in 1982, has limited capability during the hours of darkness because the pilots cannot refer to the terrain and horizon to assist in maneuver, navigation, and attack. The night attack version, introduced into the fleet in 1989, has increased capabilities over the day attack version but still has limitations. Its Angle Rate Bombing System, used by the day and night attack models for weapons aiming and delivery, is not effective at night or during adverse weather conditions. In addition, the night attack versions forward looking infrared system, which assists in navigation during hours of darkness, is degraded by air moisture.