The Hawker Siddeley Harrier astounded the world with its unique ability to take-off and land vertically utilizing vectored thrust from its powerful 8000kg thrust engine. First tested in concept in 1960, the aircraft went through many periods of testing and modification prior to acceptance by the Royal Air Force and other nations in 1974. The production Harriers utilized either a Pegasus 6 or 11 engine of 8000 or 9750kg thrust and it was only natural that the Royal Navy should find application for this type of aircraft with their fleet air arm. Various political and financial considerations delayed the order for the ”Navalized” Harrier until May 1975, when the Admiralty ordered an initial 24 aircraft plus one T.Mk.4’s in 1980.
The FRS.1 is easily distinguished from its land based counterparts by a modified nose section incorporating a raised pilots seat and Ferranti Blue Fox radar, plus principal armament of Sea Eagle anti-ship missiles and AIM-9L Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. Martel or Harpoon ASMs may be carried as alternatives to Sea Eagle until the latter become operational. The first FRS.1 to fly was actually the initial production Sea Harrier, on 20 August 1978, and the prototype model later in December 1978. The home of the Sea Harriers was designated Yeovilton Navy Base, and they received the first aircraft in June 1979, where intensive flight trials began with ”100/VL” squadron four days later.
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