The large FLIR (Forward-Looking Infra-Red)-ball turret is clearly visible in this view of Lynx HAS.3 XZ237.
Pictured prior to deployment when the squadrons’ ‘winged fist’ marking was removed from the fin, are two of 899 NAS Sea Harriers ZD615 and XZ495. Fitted with the Blue Vixen pulse doppler radar, the aircraft is capable of simultaneous engagements of multiple targets at Beyond Visual Range (BVR).
The first operational deployment of the Fleet Air Arm’s BAe Sea Harrier F/A.2 is currently underway in the Adriatic with the aircraft flying Combat Air Patrols over Bosnia. Peter Cooper took this shot of two F/A.2s on the deck of HMS Invincible just before the present deployment
Also part of the CAG, were Sea Harrier FRS.1s of No 800 NAS. This one is armed with two Sidewinder AAMs.
Coming aboard for work-up, Sea Harrier F/A.2 ZE697 ‘715’ of No 899 NAS (Operational Evaluation Unit) descends towards Invincible’s deck. The aircraft carries an external refuelling probe on the port side.
HMS Invincible, now serving in the Adriatic. At the extreme bow and stern can be seen the latest Dutch-made Goalkeeper close-range anti-missile gun systems.
Handling practice also involved raising and lowering the new Sea Harrier F/A.2 on the deck lift.
Sea King HAS.6 XV655 of No 819 NAS, the squadron providing the ASW element of the Group.
For Airborne Early Warning, No 849 NAS assigned three Sea King AEW.2As to Invincible, two of the A Flight element are seen arriving from RNAS Culdrose.
