Royal Air Force Harrier GR.3
Harrier GR.3 Colour Schemes
Prior to the Falklands, RN Fleet Air Arm Sea Harriers carried a two-tone scheme of Humbrol 123 (Extra Dark Sea Grey) over Humbrol 130 (Satin White). During the campaign, these aircraft had the white portions overpainted to make an overall Humbrol 123 (Extra Dark Sea Grey) scheme. In operations, this scheme was deemed too dark at high level and replacement aircraft were given an Medium Sea Grey paint job. After the Falklands campaign, all Sea Harriers were repainted in an even lighter scheme of overall Humbrol 164 (Dark Sea Gray).
<<< Back to the Sea Harrier Challenge Page
Harrier GR.3 two-tone camouflage scheme
Official Scheme: Dark Sea Grey and RAF Dark Green topsides over Light Aircraft Grey lower surfaces.
Suggested paints: Humbrol 164 (Dark Sea Grey) and Humbrol 163 (Dark Green) over Humbrol 166 (Light Aircraft Grey).
Notes: Humbrol 116 (US Dark Green) can be substituted. Prior to 1975 the finish was glossy, but matt on later versions.
Harrier GR.3 two-tone camouflage scheme (wraparound)
Official Scheme: Dark Sea Grey and RAF Dark Green camouflage.
Suggested paints: Humbrol 164 (Dark Sea Grey) and Humbrol 163 (Dark Green)
Notes: This scheme is identical to the earlier two-tone camouflage pattern except the camouflage extends fully around the undersides of the fuselage of the aircraft
Harrier GR.3 two-tone camouflage scheme (arctic)
Official Scheme: Dark Sea Grey and white.
Suggested paints: Humbrol 164 (Dark Sea Grey) and white.
Harrier GR.3s deployed to Norway were given a coat of "washable white" paint over one of the two-tone camouflage colours, usually the Dark Green. Since the white was a temporary paste applied to the aircraft, it was usually weathered and the original colour showed through. In this role the Harriers were usually fitted with the air-to-air refuelling probe.
On-screen colour swatches may differ significantly from the actual hue of the paint. Use the Humbrol colour numbers for reference and make sure to test the paint on scrap plastic before using on the main kit.