Airfix 1/72 Harrier GR.5

AIRFIX 1:72 HARRIER GR.MK 5
'INBOX Review'

Reviewer: Paul Dawson (rec.models.scale)

Kit: Airfix No.4038 1/72 Gr.5 Harrier

Aircraft: The Harrier GR.Mk 5 is the second generation of this unique fighter, which is also known in the USAF as the AV-8B Harrier. It is larger than the first generation Harrier Gr.1/3 and AV-8A models, mainly in the fuselage and wing area and is almost an entirely new aircraft compared to its predecessor. It also has a better performance thanks to a better engine and of course has been upgraded and updated in all other areas, such as avionics, to replace the previous Harrier versions in service.

Instructions: These come in the usual Airfix step by step process with just over half a dozen exploded assembly views and clunky arrows pointing to the areas the pieces go - easy to follow but not extremely exact - although I can't see how anyone would have too much problems. A brief history of the aircraft as well a four view diagram for decal placement and markings is also provided. Paint call outs are provided for individual components but as is the usual selfish case, Airfix provide only these in Humbrol numbers and you will need to access a cross reference chart to find out their respective names etc.

Versions & Decals: The kit provides for two versions to be built, one from 1 Sqn and the other 3 Sqn in the generic dark green/sea grey camouflage scheme. The decal sheet is adequate and provides a little bit of stencilling but is a little off register and the roundels are a little off centre. Neither is too concerning but they might be noticed on the finished model by the keen observer!

Detail & Options: The kit contains raised panel lines in spite of it being a relatively recent release by todays tooling standards (late 80's I believe). The cockpit is also reasonably sparse with seat, tub, stick and instrument panel the only parts to play with. A decal is provided for the instrument panel console. The kit does feature a bunch of missiles (mainly sidewinders I think), 500-lb bombs, gun pods and fuel tanks that can all be used as ordnance with enough to add to the spares box. The canopy can also be displayed in the open position if one desires.

Impressions: The kit looks like a typical Airfix offering and appears that it will go together reasonably well as one would expect it to. I expect some of the parts have been taken from the older GR.3 kit so if you have built this version then I would expect this GR.5 kit to be much the same in way of fitting of parts etc. Certainly dry fit testing the fuselage, wing components and nose didn't reveal any real problems although I am expecting a few gaps will need to be filled. Looks okay in the box and I think it will end up being worth the purchase. Airfix, to my knowledge are the only makers of any GR.5 Harriers in this scale and have also released a Hi-Tech version, but I am not sure of what the differences, if any, there are between the two kits.

Related Reviews:-

Airfix 1/72 Harrier GR.7

Related INBOX Reviews:-

Airfix HiTech version boxart

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