By Chris Gurney

Photos Supplied by Martin Cole

The first of 57 Sea Harrier FRS.1s first entered service in 1978. The Sea Harriers were largely based on the RAF Harrier GR3’s but with a few modifications. These included a large bubble canopy for better visability in the air to air combat role as well as the fitting of the Blue Fox radar.

The Sea Harriers most notable combat was during the Falklands War, a total of 20 were deployed on board the Royal Navy Carriers HMS Hermes and Invincible. They managed to destroy 23 Argentine aircraft for the loss of no Harriers in air to air combat, although 3 were lost to enemy ground fire during the conflict.

The Sea Harrier which was re-designated FA/2 was also deployed during the Bosnian conflict of 1994. During this time Serbian defences managed to down a single jet. The Sea Harrier has also enforced the no fly zones over Iraq during the last 12 years.

In 2000 the RN Sea Harrier F/A-2 and RAF Harrier GR7 forces were merged to form the Joint Force Harrier and with the retirement of the Sea Harrier this year the RN and RAF will share the use of the new Harrier GR9’s until they are hopefully replaced by the Joint Strike Fighter.

Below is a selection of photos taken by Martin Cole. To view image, click on it.

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Last updated: March 28, 2006.