1:48 AV-8B Harrier II Plus

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

An injection-molded plastic kit of the AV-8B Harrier II Plus vertical takeoff attack aircraft in 1:48 scale from Hasegawa. The Plus version differs from the basic Harrier II by the radar in the nose, which broadened the aircraft's combat capability. The box holds gray plastic sprues, clear parts for the canopy glazing, decals and external stores. Check the exact contents of the box on the packaging of the particular item.

The real subject

The AV-8B Harrier II is an American-British subsonic attack aircraft with short and vertical takeoff and landing (V/STOL). It takes off and lands thanks to vectoring nozzles that direct the engine thrust downwards, so it needs no conventional runway. The Harrier II Plus version received radar in the nose (of the APG-65 type), which is why it is often called the radar Harrier, and gained the ability to carry air-to-air missiles as well. The aircraft was a typical machine of the US Marine Corps and was used by other operators too.

Building and painting tips

Finish the vectoring nozzles and the landing gear bays before closing the fuselage. Use liquid cement for plastic that wicks into the seams and apply primer before painting. Paint the cockpit with its ejection seat and apply the instrument decals before fitting the clear canopy, and mask its frames. Fit and paint the external stores, such as air-to-air missiles and a gun pod, separately. The gray Marine Corps camouflage comes into its own with a gentle panel line accent.

Who the model is for

• For anyone who loves vertical takeoff aircraft and modern attack machines
• For collectors of US Marine Corps aircraft in 1:48 scale
• For modelers with basic to advanced experience

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