The RAF's upgraded BAE Systems Harrier GR.9 prototype development aircraft (ZD320), a follow-on to GR.7/7A ground-attack fighter, made its initial flight from Warton in Lancashire, on May 30.

The U.K. government intends to procure the Maverick missile system from Raytheon Co. for the Harrier GR7, following successful completion of tests, the company said yesterday.

The vertical take-off and landing-capable Harrier served in the U.K.'s Royal Air Force for five decades from 1969 to 2011. But why was it retired?