The McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II is a unique and versatile aircraft that has served admirably with the Marine Corps for a generation. With its upcoming retirement, the Harrier is set to be replaced on a mission set that includes close air support (CAS), interdiction, and armed reconnaissance missions.

One of the primary reasons the Harrier has been able to undertake such a diverse set of missions is the jet’s ability to perform vertical or short takeoff and landing (V/STOL), which lends itself to operational flexibility. Unlike conventional aircraft that need a proper runway to take off and land, the Harrier can operate from short, unimproved airstrips, forward operating bases, and even small naval vessels. The ability to operate from just about anywhere enables the Harrier to support ground forces more directly and responsively,........

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