All branches of the armed forces have been constantly adapting to change, especially in new upgraded weapons that will make their work more efficient. It is not new that sometimes tankers, ships, riffles, and fighter jets must retire. That is the influence of the never-ending innovation of paraphernalia to make them better. Now, the AV 8B Harrier is at the end of its twilight years. In the first quarter of this year, Harriers were spotted flying over the eastern Mediterranean on a deterrence mission despite the Israel war, proving that even though this aircraft has been in service for over 40 years, it can still do the job.
A Closer Look at the AV 8B Harrier
The Harrier, also known as the “Jump Jet,” is a legendary aircraft of the Marine Corps. It was based on the British-designed aircraft, the Hawker Siddeley Harrier. This single-engine attack aircraft can do vertical and short take-offs and landings, making it an all-time favorite since 1981. It was adopted by the Marine Corps and the Navy for close air support and electronic warfare platforms.
The AV 8B Harrier is the first operating S/VTOL aircraft used by the Marine Corps and the U.S. Navy. One of its functions is to serve as an aircraft carrier, large assault ships, forward operating bases, humanitarian missions, deterrence, and even surveillance because it can land anywhere easily; with this, the Marine Corps has primarily valued the aircraft.
Significant Upgrades of the Harrier
Since this aircraft joined the Marine Corps, it received significant upgrades and modifications. Some of this was due to the Global War on Terror; the AV 8B Harrier had seen an improvement in the ordnance it could carry and its systems. This could help many of the Marines on the ground. Its infrared, targeting systems, and night vision are also better.
Currently, the aircraft can drop 500- and 1,000 pounds of Joint Direct Attack Munitions. It can rocket and fire a 25mm cannon. Taking the place of one of the most lethal strike jets in history. Since then, the Harrier received constant upgrades and improvements to make it more powerful through the operational test squadrons.
AV 8B Harrier: The End of an Era
Even though the Harrier was an all-time favorite, everything must end. The aircraft is to be in a museum for display. With its near retirement, even the operational fleet was reduced to two. They are phasing it out after a few years. The Harrier’s last five class maintenance techs have also graduated. The Corps has been adjusting, placing the crew and maintenance team of the Harrier in a new assignment.
The plan to transition to a new fighter aircraft began a decade ago. In fact, the department had transitioned some of its pilots to fly the F-35. According to Maj. Melissa Spencer, Harrier pilots are filling over 60% of the transition. This would be a strategic move since those pilots already have knowledge that can be used. The pilots being trained to fly the AV 8B Harrier will be the last. They will even get to transition to the F-35.
There are reenlistment incentives to retain a certain number of Marines in the Harrier community. However, the list was not public. Other Marines can transfer to various positions outside the F-35 and fill positions in contracting, logistics, communications, and intelligence. Pilots who wish not to transition to the F-35 can choose from being an air officer, planner, forward air controller, or instructor. With this transition, the Marine Corps hopes to use the talents of the Harrier community in their new fighter jets.
“Traper” Cumbie, part of the Harrier community, had flown one of the jets of his squadron to the Hickory Aviation Museum in North Carolina. As it was delivered to its final stop, around 3,000 viewers witnessed Cumbie perform three fly-bys with another Harrier. The AV 8B Harrier embarked with the 24th MEU in late April. The MEU is part of the eastern Mediterranean to prevent broader regional conflicts. According to the aviation plans, some Harriers will continue operating until 2027.
Suggested reads:
- The PACT Act: Looking at the Progress and Challenges Since Its Inception
- Cutting-Edge Technology: The Best Fighter Jets In the World
