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 distinctive AV-8B Harrier II, a pioneering V/STOL (vertical and/or short takeoff and landing) aircraft, after more than 40 years of service.
The Harrier II was crucial for its operational flexibility, launching from improvised sites and providing vital close air support in multiple conflicts, including the Gulf War.
Phased out due to rising maintenance costs and a shift towards stealth technology, the AV-8B will be replaced by the F-35B, another V/STOL variant.

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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.