V/STOL thrust-vectoring arrangement on the Harrier. When the nozzles are horizontal and point backwards, the aircraft flies forward. When the nozzles are vertical and point downward, the Harrier can fly up or down or hover in a stationary location.Nick's question really comes down to a matter of perspective.y friend and I are arguing about the Harrier. He says it hovers like a helicopter when I think it can only hover by basically pushing off the ground. - question from Nick Lengyel.