1:48 AV-8B Harrier II Plus

AV-8B Harrier II Plus 1:48 (UMa Model)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American vertical take-off attack aircraft AV-8B Harrier II Plus in 1:48 scale from the manufacturer UMa Model. This is a completely new mold with very fine surface detail. According to the manufacturer the package contains clear plastic, metal and photo-etched parts, masking film, rich decals and three marking options, and with them a finely rendered cockpit and a range of underwing stores.

The real subject

The AV-8B Harrier II Plus is the modernized version of the American vertical and short take-off attack aircraft (V/STOL) of the United States Marine Corps. Compared with the basic version you will recognize it by the APG-65 radar in the lengthened nose, which markedly widened the possibilities of deployment against both ground and air targets. Harriers use vectored engine thrust with rotating nozzles, thanks to which they can take off and land vertically or on a very short runway.

Building and painting tips

Use thin cement for plastic and bond the metal and photo-etched parts with super glue. Finish the cockpit before closing the fuselage; the kit makes it possible to show the flaps either lowered or retracted, as you choose, and an adjustable refueling probe. Apply a primer before varnishing and lay the paints down with an airbrush; the enclosed masks make clean cockpit glazing easier. On gray naval schemes you will appreciate fine emphasis of the panel lines.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of modern American combat aircraft in 1:48 scale
• Fans of vertical take-off Harriers and of the United States Marine Corps
• Modelers who will appreciate a new mold with rich equipment in the box
• Builders who want to show lowered flaps and underwing stores

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.