The AV-8B Harrier II is a second generation vertical short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft based on the original British Harrier design of the late 1960's. Combining tactical mobility, responsiveness, reduced operating cost, and basing flexibility -- both afloat and ashore -- V/STOL aircraft are well-suited to the special combat and expeditionary requirements of the US Marine Corps.

The primary mission of the AV-8B Harrier II is to provide close air support to ground forces. Secondary missions include short range interdiction, fighter escort, deck launched interception, and combat air patrol (CAP).

After completing operational evaluation trials in March 1985, the USMC AV-8B Harrier II was formally approved for full production some six months later. A two-seat training version was introduced in 1987 and a night attack version entered service in late 1989.

Pictured here is a 1:48 scale replica of a USMC Hawker Harrier AV-8B+ jump jet commemorating the VMA-214 "Black Sheep". Pre-order! Ship Date: June 2026.

Dimensions:
Wingspan: 7-1/2-inches
Length: 11-1/2-inches

Release Date: ?

Historical Account: "Pappy" - Serving members of US Marine Attack Squadron 214 have always been proud to uphold the traditions of a unit which was originally formed at Ewa Field in Hawaii on July 1st, 1942, and claimed celebrated ace pilot Major "PAPPY" Boyington amongst their number.

Boyington was significant for becoming the first fighter ace to eclipse the victory total of the famous Great War 'Ace' Eddie Rickenbacker. He also received the Medal of Honor, America's highest military decoration.

They were known as the 'Black Sheep' Squadron, because this new unit was made up of individual airmen seconded from other units right across the Pacific Theatre, with little support or resources, leaving members feeling like outcasts - a disparate group. What they lacked in support, they made up for in fighting prowess.

The later history of this unit was marked by their long association with the McDonnell Douglas AV-8B+ Harrier II, an aircraft type they operated for 33 years. They only relinquished their aircraft when they exchanged them for the fifth generation Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II stealth jet in 2022.

For the 75th anniversary of the formation of the 'Black Sheep', VMA-214 presented AV-8B Harrier II Plus 165001 '01' in this striking special scheme, with the aircraft proudly carrying the name Major Gregory "PAPPY" Boyington on its starboard cockpit canopy framing.