Harrier GR.3/AV-8A/AV-8C ‘Special Markings’ MKM144119

The Hawker Siddeley Harrier "Jump Jet" is a British V/STOL aeroplane developed in the 1960s. The initial version, the Harrier GR.1, was based on the pre-production P.1127 (RAF) fighter, of which a batch of 60 was ordered for the RAF in 1967. A similar model-designated Mk.50, with simplified navigational/attack system, was exported to the United States as the AV-8A, for use by the Marine Corps and a total of 102 aircraft were delivered during the early 1970s. Some 60 aircraft were upgraded as the AV-8Cs by mid 1980s.

The Harrier GR.1/AV-8 was a single-seat fixed-wing all-metal monoplane powered by a R-R Pegasus turbojet (US designation F402), used for ground-attack, close air support, reconnaissance and fighter roles. It was fitted with two air intakes and four vectoring nozzles for directing the thrust generated by the engine. It had a tandem undercarriage and two outrigger landing gear units. External store hard points were installed for carrying a variety of weapons and external fuel tanks: two under each wing and one under the fuselage, while two Aden cannon gun pods could also be fitted beneath the fuselage.

The Harrier was a very innovative aeroplane and the only truly successful V/STOL design of the many that arose during that period of time and it became the versatile warrior of the RAF.