The first radar-equipped AV-8B Harrier II Plus, made its inagural flight on Sept. 22, 1992, over southern Missouri. The aircraft was the result of joint development efforts by the United States, Italy and Spain, as represented by the three flags located just below the canopy on the forward fuselage. Equipped with APG-65 radar system, the Harrier II Plus adds a multi-mission capability to the V/STOL features that allow it to operate where other fixed-wing aircraft cannot. The combat-proven radar, in conjunction with the aircraft's night-attack systems, increases the pilot's ability to perform air-to-surface and air-to-air missions in periods of darkness and adverse weather, and to be more aware of situations for better self-defense.