AV-8B Harrier II+ Inherent Resolve Die-Cast Model

In service for 40 years, this AV-8B completed 8,955 flight hours.

Final AV-8B Harrier II to equip the VMA-231 “Ace of Spades” squadron, aircraft 165357 entered service in 1985 and was officially converted to Harrier II specification in 1998. Active during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Marine Expeditionary deployments, it logged 8,955 flight hours, 995 of which were combat hours. Attaining just under 40 years of service, the aircraft was demilitarized and flown to Meacham Field on May 13th, 2025. On display just one month later in June, this AV-8B sits alongside a predecessor AV-8A, showcasing the Harrier’s evolution.

Features:

– Authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details

– Deployed or retracted landing gear

– Rotating VTOL engine nozzles

– Optional press-fit weaponry

– Display stand included

– Measures 7.75”l with a 5” wingspan at 1:72 scale

– Officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Intended for day and night strike forces, the AV-8B Harrier II is outfitted with provisions for both air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, in tandem with advanced radar and targeting pods. One of the fastest accelerating multirole fighters in the world, the Harrier II is highly versatile and quick to prepare for combat. Though subsonic, the Harrier II can perform short or even vertical takeoffs with ordnance onboard, making it an ideal pick for unprepared runways or aircraft carriers. Demonstrating their impressive performance during Operation Desert Storm of 1991, Harrier IIs were the furthest forward tactical fighter to the border of Kuwait. Accumulating more than 4,000 flight hours with 90-percent mission capable rate, the AV-8B proved worthy in battle, receiving numerous upgrades over the following decades to extend the aircraft’s service life. Built and converted between 1981 and 2003, 337 units were produced by McDonnell Douglas.