AV-8B Harrier Plus by Charles Landrum (Monogram + AMRAAM 1/48)

Monogram + AMRAAM 1/48 scale
AV-8B Harrier Plus

by Charles Landrum

AV-8B Harrier Plus

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Introduction

Here is my Monogram 1/48 scale AV-8B+ Harrier built using the AMRAAM conversion, Eduard photo-etched set and Two Bobs decals.

Construction

This kit was several years in the making.

The AV-8B Plus version with the longer radome for the multi-function radar really makes the plane look the part of the "Carolina Lawn Dart".

The AMRAAM conversion really enhances the model and brings it up to date. It is not without its flaws: the dorsal spine is too short, the instrument panel was hard to fit and I couldn't figure out how to mount the ECM pod with the gun pack in place (even with help from Luca - it is done in real life) - but these are minor issues.

I did rescribe the upper wing since the 100% LEX provided by AMRAAM is engraved. I left the rest of the model with raised panel lines.

I also opened up both wheel wells, since Harriers at rest have these doors open. As a result I had to scratch build the main wheel well.

Painting, Markings & Finishing Touches

I painted my Harrier in accordance with the Two Bobs instructions, using Model Master enamels. The upper surface should be Gunship Gray - Two Bobs got this right, Hasegawa did not. Models that I have seen painted in accordance with Hasegawa's instructions look too pale up top.

The ordnance is from various sources and I gave the bomb a thermal coating from plastic powder. I have yet to hang the "remove before flight" tags

The Two Bob decals is the original Hard Corps Harriers release. A very comprehensive set, it allows you to build multiple aircraft and includes Night Vision Goggle compatible formation light strips.

I had minor problems with silvering on some of the stencils. I used the sheet to replicate an OP Iraqi Freedom VMF-231aircraft.

Conclusion

I won't call it the definitive Harrier model, but I was pleased with the outcome.

I took the pictures with my FUJI S3000 set on auto and 1meg resolution.

The base is fiberboard painted and lined to look like tarmac. The background for many of the shots is historic Chambers Field at NAS Norfolk.

Charles Landrum is a defense consultant now retired from the US Navy. A US Naval Academy Graduate, he spent the bulk of his 20-year naval career at sea serving on six ships of the Atlantic Fleet including USS SAIPAN, USS ENTERPRISE, USS BIDDLE, USS HAYLER, USS HARRY E. YARNELL and USS KIDD. He also accumulated time and experience on the ships of the NATO navies, especially Canadian. An avid modeler and HyperScaler, he concentrates his modeling efforts on the ships and aircraft of the US Navy. He and his family continue to reside in Norfolk