Hobby Master 1/72 HA4106 Sea Harrier FRS Mk.1 Falklands XZ457, 899 NAS, HMS Hermes 1982

The BAe Sea Harrier FRS1 first entered service with the Royal Navy in April 1980. The aircraft is a naval VTOL/VSTOL jet fighter designed for reconnaissance and attack roles. In 1993 an improved variant of the Sea Harrier was produced as the FA.2 with a more powerful engine, improved air-to-air capabilities and weapons options. The FA.2 was produced until 1998 and continued in service until 2006 when it was replaced by the Harrier GR9. 56 FA.2 Sea Harriers were produced for the Royal Navy.

On April 2, 1982 Argentine forces invaded the Falkland Islands they claimed as theirs and the British also had claims on the islands. The small island force was easily overwhelmed and the Argentines occupied the territory. It wasn’t long before Britain mounted a task force to retake the Falklands. On April 1982 HMS Hermes sailed from the UK as part of 127 ships, consisting of 43 Royal Navy vessels, 22 from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and 62 merchant ships. Sea Harrier FRS Mk.1 was credited with three victories and one damaged. After 74 days Britain reclaimed the Falklands.