Marine Corps Retires Harriers

Aircraft was among the first to embody V/STOL capabilities.

Zach Vasile

Thursday, June 04, 2026 at 01:10 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

A sailor directs a U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier from Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 211 during flight operations aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu [Courtesy: Tillamook Air Museum]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Marine Corps officially retired its iconic AV-8B Harrier II aircraft at a "Sundown Ceremony," ending over 40 years of service.
The Harrier II was revolutionary for its Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing (V/STOL) capability, enabling it to operate from improvised sites and providing crucial support for expeditionary warfare.
Having seen extensive combat in conflicts such as the Gulf War and Afghanistan, the aircraft is being phased out due to escalating maintenance costs and an increased focus on stealth technology.
The F-35B, another V/STOL variant, will serve as the Harrier's replacement within the Marine Corps.

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The U.S. Marine Corps this week bid farewell to one of its most distinctive and groundbreaking aircraft.

At a “Sundown Ceremony” on Wednesday at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in North Carolina, the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing officially retired the AV-8B Harrier II. Marine Attack Squadron 223 was the last unit still using the aircraft, which will reach the end of its service life in September.