BAe/McDonnell Douglas Harrier by Stewart Wilson

A truly revoluntionary combat aircraft, the Harrier was the world's first practical V/STOL fixed wing aircraft, its ground breaking design later backed up by a proven combat record as both a fighter and attack aircraft in the Falklands, the Gulf War and elsewhere. In Falklands air-to-air combat, Royal Navy Sea Harriers scored a remarkable 23 kills for no losses.

After a difficult birth and at times uncertain development, the Harrier finally found a niche operating from both dry land and ships. Championed by the US Marine Corps (its largest customer), the Harrier became a largely American product in its second generation and remains an important element in the air arms of six nations.