The End of an Era: AV 8B Harrier Flies Into Retirement

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