ncludes free decals and masking foil Packed with color photosThe British Aerospace Sea Harrier is a naval VTOL/STOVL jet fighter, reconnaissance and attack aircraft, a development of the Hawker Siddeley Harrier which first entered service with the Royal Navy in April 1980 as the Sea Harrier FRS1. Unusual in an era when most naval and land-based air superiority fighters are larger and supersonic, the subsonic Sea Harrier is tasked primarily for air defense and operating from Royal Navy aircraft carriers, shooting down 20 aircraft in the Falkland war in air combat with no losses. It was also used to launch ground attacks in the same manner as the Harriers operated by the Royal Air Force.A second, updated version for the Royal Navy was made in 1993 as the Sea Harrier FA2, improving its air to air abilities and weapons compatibility, along with a more powerful engine. This version continued manufacture until 1998.Its usage in the Falklands War was its most high profile and important success, having protected the British Task Force as its only fixed-wing fighter available. The Sea Harrier was withdrawn early from Royal Navy service in March 2006.About the SeriesThis is a classic series of highly illustrated books on the best machines of war, with several hundred photographs of each aircraft or vehicle. With close-up views of the key features of each machine, including its variations, markings and modifications, customizing and creating a model has never been easier. Includes extra features such as decals and masking foil."