Hobby Master 1/72 Harrier GR.9A ZG478 41 (R) Sqn. RAF Coningsby Air Base March 2006

In 2006, Harrier GR.Mk 9 #ZG478, based at RAF Coningsby, England was decorated in this special commemorative paint scheme to celebrate RAF No.41 Squadron's 90th Anniverary. No. 41 Squadron is one of the RAF's oldest and most distinguished squadrons. Initially flying biplanes, the squadron played a crucial role in both World Wars, transitioning through various aircraft, including the Spitfire in WWII. Post-war, No. 41 Squadron has operated a range of jet aircraft, including the Tornado GR4 and the Eurofighter Typhoon. Today, it serves as a test and evaluation unit, responsible for developing and integrating advanced weapons and systems. The squadron's rich history and ongoing contributions underscore its importance in the RAF's operational capabilities.

Designed to meet a NATO specification for a light tactical support fighter that was also capable of Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing (V/STOL), the Harrier first flew in 1960. This unique aircraft has the distinction of being the only successful V/STOL design out of the many that were put forth during the 1960s. There are four different versions of the Harrier, which uses thrust vectoring to achieve V/STOL: the first generation Hawker Siddeley Harrier, the Naval strike/air defense BAE Sea Harrier, the US AV-8B Harrier II variant and the British BAE Harrier II. The Harrier was produced between 1969 and 2003.

Hobby Master's 1:72 scale Harrier is a very well-executed model designed with great attention to detail and constructed almost entirely from diecast metal, with only a small amount of plastic. The configurable canopy provides an unobstructed view of the unusually detailed instrument panel. The turbofan can be clearly seen inside the engine intake, the elevators rotate in unison, and there are four independently positionable engine exhaust ports with small vectoring ports at the rear and on the wingtips. The series includes the US AV-8B variant and the UK GR.Mk 9, and each release features a variety of removable fuel tanks and ordnance.

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
• Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear.
• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
• Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.