The British Aerospace Sea Harrier is a legendary naval V/STOL jet fighter, famous for its crucial service with the Royal Navy and its iconic performance during the 1982 Falklands War. Powered by the revolutionary Rolls-Royce Pegasus vectored-thrust engine, this subsonic aircraft pioneered vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) and short take-off (STOVL) from small carriers using a ‘ski-jump’ ramp.
The initial Sea Harrier FRS.1 demonstrated exceptional air combat capability, achieving an unprecedented 20-0 kill ratio against Argentine aircraft thanks to its maneuverability, advanced AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles, and Ferranti Blue Fox radar. As a symbol of British ingenuity and maritime air superiority, the Sea Harrier remains a celebrated figure in aviation history and an unmissable topic for military history enthusiasts.
Explore the RAF Harrier collection to discover artwork celebrating the land-based Harrier family. Discover the AV-8B Harrier II in US Marine Corps service, or browse our wider Royal Navy Aviation Art Collection.
Discover the British Harrier story through first-hand accounts of the pilots and aircraft that served with the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.
Harrier Boys: Volume One
Harrier Boys: Volume Two