US Marine Corps Ditches Iconic Harrier Jets for Stealthy F-35Bs

The US Marine Corps has finally retired its iconic AV-8B Harrier II aircraft after more than four decades of service. The Boeing AV-8B Harrier II was a unique asset, capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings, allowing the Marines to operate from expeditionary bases, short runways, and amphibious assault ships.

The aircraft's replacement is already flying: the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II. The F-35B preserves the Harrier's ability to operate from amphibious assault ships while adding stealth, advanced sensors, and networked combat capabilities.

Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223 held its sundown ceremony on June 3, marking the end of the Harrier's operational career with the service. The squadron is scheduled to reactivated as Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 223 in fiscal year 2028 with the F-35B.