The United States Marine Corps has officially retired the AV-8B Harrier II, marking the end of an era for the iconic vertical takeoff and landing jet. A ceremony was held at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in North Carolina, where approximately 5,000 attendees witnessed the final flight of the Harrier, a staple of Marine aviation for over five decades.

A Legacy of Versatility

The Harrier, affectionately known as the ‘jump jet,’ has played a crucial role in various military operations, including Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, the war in Afghanistan, and the fight against ISIS. Its unique ability to take off and land vertically allowed it to operate from locations without traditional runways, such as the decks of US Navy amphibious assault ships.

Retired Marine Lt. Col. Mike Rountree highlighted the jet’s operational flexibility, stating, “The Harrier didn’t need an airfield. All it needed was a Marine flying it and a few support crew to fill it with gas and load weapons at primitive landing sites.”

Transition to Modern Technology

The AV-8B Harrier II is being replaced by the F-35B, a more advanced stealth fighter jet with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. The F-35B, which costs around $110 million each, is already in service on US amphibious assault ships and has been deployed in ongoing conflicts.

Despite its retirement from the US fleet, the Harrier will continue to serve in the Italian and Spanish militaries, and some units will be displayed in aviation museums, preserving its legacy for future generations.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its military achievements, the Harrier has also made its mark in popular culture. In the 1990s, it was famously featured in a Pepsi commercial as a prize for collecting Pepsi Points, leading to a legal battle when a business student attempted to claim the jet.

As the Harrier takes its final bow, it leaves behind a storied history of innovation and service, remembered fondly by those who flew and maintained it.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.