BAE Systems Harrier ZG506 Final Flight (1:72 scale)
- The Harrier is the first operational V/STOL (Vertical/ Short Takeoff & Landing) aircraft. By directing the engines exhaust through movable nozzles the force could be used to propel the aircraft along a runway or lift it vertically & then into a forward motion. Because of this ability to lift off vertically the Harriers began to be referred to as “jump jets”. These aircraft were continuously being refined & enhanced over the years with many new variants being produced.
The GR.9 Harrier came into service in October 2006 & is a very updated improvement on the GR.7. The GR.9 is capable of a wider range of advanced precision weaponry, new communications along with upgraded airframes. The GR9 is a single-seat, multi-role combat aircraft that can operate at night & at low-light levels in extreme environments, from a wide selection of locations including aircraft carriers & forward air bases. One of the main roles of the Harrier is close air support of ground troops.
The British Joint Force Harriers are due for dress down (retirement) on December 16, 2010. Due to budget cuts the entire UK Harrier fleet will be retired by 2011, 7 years earlier than planned. This will mean savings that can go toward the Tornado fleet. This Harrier wears a special paint scheme marking the years this type of aircraft has been in UK service.