Description

The Sea Harrier still remains one of the most unique military aircraft with a rich combat history. The Harrier is a naval short take-off and vertical landing (V/STOL) jet fighter, reconnaissance and attack aircraft. It was developed on request of the Royal Navy by Hawker Siddeley which merged with the British Aerospace shortly after. 

The debut of the Sea Harrier took place during the Falklands war of 1982, where the aircraft performed the primary air defence role with a secondary role of ground defence. The Sea Harriers shot down 20 Argentinian aircraft during the conflict, although two Sea Harriers were lost to enemy ground fire. 

A second upgraded version for the Royal Navy was made in 1993 as the Sea Harrier F/A2, improving its air-to-air abilities and weapons compatibilities, along with a more powerful engine. 

The tag in your possession was up-cycled from the flap of the Sea Harrier F/A2, registered as ZH801 and produced in 1996.  When undergoing planned maintenance in 2004, that part was removed and replaced. The aircraft remained in service with RNAS Yeovilton until its retirement. It was transferred to the Fleet Air Arm Museum, where it is currently displayed with the tail number ZH800.