Sea Harrier Preservation Project, a UK-based CIC, combines aircraft restoration with cutting-edge AI to reshape STEM education
United Kingdom, 31 May 2025 — A Cold War legend is preparing for a new mission — not in the skies, but in schools, airshows, and technology hubs across the UK. The Sea Harrier Preservation Project, a newly formed Community Interest Company (CIC), has launched with a bold dual mission: to restore the iconic Sea Harrier aircraft and use it as the foundation for an immersive, AI-powered STEM education programme.
Unlike traditional museum displays, these Sea Harriers won’t gather dust. Instead, they’ll serve as interactive learning platforms, integrating real aircraft systems with artificial intelligence, flight simulation, and advanced educational tools designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and digital creators.
“This isn’t just a restoration — it’s a resurrection of purpose,” said [Spokesperson Name], founder of the Sea Harrier Preservation Project and a former Royal Navy aircraft engineer. “We’re taking a symbol of British aerospace history and using it to spark curiosity, confidence, and careers in technology.”
Engineering History, Inspiring the Future
The Sea Harrier, famous for its vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities and combat record in the Falklands War, is one of Britain’s most iconic aircraft. The Sea Harrier Preservation Project is acquiring and restoring original examples, not for flight, but for ground-based activation as mobile simulators and STEM learning environments.
Each restored cockpit will be fitted with real and simulated avionics, connected to a custom-built AI system that guides students through lessons in:
-
Aeronautics and flight physics
-
Avionics coding (Python-based)
-
Engineering principles
-
AI and data systems
-
Drone technology and electronics
The system will travel to schools, science festivals, and public events, delivering hands-on STEM education through a unique, immersive format.
A National-Scale Vision for STEM
With employers across aerospace, manufacturing, and software sectors reporting critical skills shortages, the Sea Harrier Preservation Project delivers an experience that blends history, hardware, and high-tech learning.
Designed in consultation with STEM educators, the project supports:
-
Key Stages 3 to 5
-
GCSE and A-Level enrichment
-
Alternative provision and vocational learning
-
Outreach to underserved and rural schools
“You can’t inspire the future with boring tools,” said [Spokesperson Name]. “We’re giving students something unforgettable — the chance to sit in the cockpit of a Royal Navy fighter jet and learn how the systems work from the inside out.”
A CIC Powered by Community and Innovation
As a Community Interest Company, all profits are reinvested into aircraft restoration, STEM access, and educational development. The Sea Harrier Preservation Project is actively seeking:
-
Corporate sponsors
-
STEM education partners
-
Technology donors
-
Volunteers and ex-service engineers
-
Supporters through merchandise and membership
Initial restoration efforts are being funded by community backers and supporters who believe in the power of heritage-driven, tech-forward education.
Join the Mission
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, sponsor, or aviation enthusiast, this is your chance to help write a new chapter for an aircraft that once helped define British airpower. Now, it will help define the next generation of thinkers and builders.
To learn more, donate, or register your school for a visit, go to:
👉 www.shpp.org.uk
For media inquiries, contact:
📧 press@shpp.org.uk
About the Sea Harrier Preservation Project
The Sea Harrier Preservation Project is a UK-based not-for-profit Community Interest Company dedicated to restoring historic Sea Harrier aircraft and transforming them into mobile STEM learning platforms. Through the integration of AI, simulation, and hands-on engineering, the project delivers groundbreaking educational experiences to young people across the country.
