CAS question

[GW]

Ok so in the interest of actually sparking an aviation related discussion, I've got a question for all the CAS guys here. (Before the questions start CAS = Close Air Support, and the best description I've heard for this job is: "Doing God's work by supporting the grunts on the ground")

So anyway, what is the Air to Mud community’s interpretation of the AV-8's capabilities? Coming from the AF side of the house, the A-10 and the AC-130 obviously dominate this role (not to exclude the Viper’s contributions ), so I don't hear about the Harrier much and wanted to know how it is regarded by other operators.

GW

[B-O-double-Z]

The marine pilots are outstanding at CAS. Overall, they have internalized the role better than the Air Force.

The Harrier however, in my humble opinion, has got severe limitations. It is tiny, doesn't carry much ordnance, and can't loiter in the target area for very long. The Hornet and Tomcat are much better CAS/FAC platforms than the AV-8.

[Guest Rainman A-10]

The pilots are great. The jet is not so great. Cool capabilities but the limitations are just too severe.

Technique only, when it comes to CAS...no weapons, no loiter time, no thanks.