The Harrier II, opswarfare feels, is an under-rated aircraft. Its versatility in operating from almost anywhere is a major plus in close air support [CAS] missions. So it is rather sad that it may be withdrawn from RAF service, due to shrinking budgets and expensive replacement programmes. Good close air support platforms like the Harrier and A-10A Thunderbolt II are going to be replaced by multi-role fighters like the JSF which are not likely to do CAS that well.