AV-8B Harrier II “VMA-542” Die-Cast Model

Developed from the original Hawker Harrier concept, the AV-8B Harrier II is an evolution of the innovative “jump-jet” concept.

Undertaken as a combined effort from Boeing, McDonnell Douglas, and BAE, the revolutionary AV-8 design is capable of takeoff and landing from a standstill with vectored thrust nozzles. Receiving an enlarged wing and more powerful engine, it can now sustain greater underwing weapons payloads and display enhanced maneuverability. Transformed into an advanced multirole fighter with modernized avionics, it has since been operated by several nations across the globe.

Stunning and precisely detailed, this model features:

• An authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details
• Deployed or retracted landing gear, rotating VTOL engine nozzles, and display stand to show the aircraft in flight
• Complete set of underwing weaponry that press-fits into place, and opening canopy with pilot figurine which can be placed inside.
• Measures 7.75”l with a 5” wingspan at 1:72 scale
• Highly collectable and officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Intended for day and night strike forces, the Harrier II is outfitted with provisions for both air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, in tandem with advanced radar and targeting pods. For the air-superiority capability, the AV-8B can carry up to 4 of the AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles, along with the 25mm GAU-13 Equalizer cannon on the lower fuselage. For strike engagements, there are a total of 6 underwing weapons stations. Performance wise, the Harrier II is one of the fastest accelerating jet fighters, but is normally limited to subsonic speeds for structural integrity and weapons capacity. Operated by the VMA-542 “Tigers”, this Harrier II was flown between 1986 and 2022 in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Taking on more hours than any other squadron, the Tigers dropped more than 1,000 tons of ordinance on their enemy targets during the conflicts.