Airfix 1/72 Hawker-Siddeley Harrier GR.1/McDonnell-Douglas AV-8A Harrier # 04057A

The Hawker-Siddeley Harrier GR.1/McDonnell-Douglas AV-8A Harrier is a famous military aircraft that is known for its ability to take off and land vertically, without the need for a runway.

The Harrier was developed in the 1960s by the British manufacturer Hawker-Siddeley, and later versions were produced by McDonnell-Douglas in the United States.

The Harrier was primarily used by the Royal Air Force and the United States Marine Corps.

The Harrier used a unique system of four vectorable nozzles, which allowed the aircraft to direct its engine thrust downwards for vertical takeoff and landing, and then redirect the thrust backwards for forward flight.

The Harrier was also equipped with weapons and could be used for ground attack, air defense, and reconnaissance missions.

The Harrier was used in a number of conflicts, including the Falklands War in 1982, where it played a key role in air support for ground forces.

The Harrier has since been replaced by newer aircraft, but it remains a popular aircraft for airshows and has become an icon of military aviation.