The origins of the development of the Harrier family date back to 1957; the first examples of the series, belonging to the GR.1 version entered into service with the RAF 12 years later. Many upgrades including an up-rated Pegasus engine and a laser tracker mounted in the lengthened nose led to the creation of the GR.3 version, which was considered to be the ultimate development of the first generation Harrier. The GR.3 Harriers saw successful service during the Falklands war.