Harrier Mk.23 Family

In 1993 BAe started looking into marketing a upgraded export Harrier based on the GR.3, 2 planes were brought back to operational condition in March of '94 to test different configurations for the ExHar program. The goal of the ExHar (RAF GR.23), was to make a completely modular avionics and systems fit that was simple to install and maintain in the third world, limited budget scenario.

GR.23: The basic GR.23 mounts a millameter-wave radar, IRST and/or laser designator in the nose, self-contained ECM and Chaff/ Flare dispensers. A reinforced composite wing with added sidewinder rails on the outrigger gear pods, a GR.5-style retractible IFR probe was also added and a new dorsal pylon capable of mounting a extra fueltank or ECM pod. 2 prototypes built.
FRS.21: Based on the FAA's FDF.1 with downgraded Firebird missile and boresight IRST/TSU optical sight incorporated, extended verticle tail root but no dorsal pylon. Used for fleet protection, 1 prototype built.
F/A.23: Hybrid FRS.1/GR.23, planned naval recon & strike version with new LERXs, laser designator housed in a under-radom pod, ECM emitters added to the wingtips & tail, small fuselodge spine, no dorsal pylon.
C.23: Light cargo transport with new composite wing, all offinsive combat systems deleted, upgraded Pegasus engine and 3 external cargo pods added. 1 prototype built.
K.23: Tanker version with 2 conformal fuel packs, two 850 gal. droptanks, one 250 gal. dorsal tank and a centerline mounted IFR hose pod. The rear HOT nozzles were fitted with thrust deflectors due to the bow-wave effect created on the receiving aircraft. The prototype was converted from the C.23 and was tested refueling Harriers, Hawks and other aircraft. 3 were ordered by the Spanish navy, but was later cancelled.

2-seat versions

EG.23: Planned SEAD version with new ECM fit on the dorsal pylon, passive radar seeker and a uprated Pegasus engine.
AEW.23: Planned airborn radar version with a podded version of the Ericsson Erieye radar.
T.23: Combat-capable trainer version of the GR.23, secondary FAC role. 1 prototype built
MR.23: Planned ASW version with uprated Pegasus engine, deleted dorsal pylon for mid-tail mounted MAD boom, optional dipping sonar & sonobuoy pods.
F.23: Dedicated ADF (with a FRS.1 type radome) was tested using a former Indian navy FRS.51, main armament was to included AMRAAM, Sidewinder /ASRAAM, Firebird LRAAM and a 25mm cannon. Converted from the T.23 prototype.

The ExHar program was considerd a moderatly success, selling 6 to the Spanish navy, 10 to the Royal Thai navy, and 8 were evaluated by Austrialia. BAe also marketed the plane to Kuwait, Switzerland and Canada, but with no further orders. The ExHar program came to an end in August '95.