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The AV-8B Harrier II: A Close-Up Look at the Marine Corps' Storied Combat Aircraft

Howard Blair

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Published in AV 8B Harrier II Units Of Operation Iraqi Freedom I VI (Combat Aircraft 99)

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The AV-8B Harrier II is a subsonic attack aircraft that can perform vertical/short takeoffs and landings (V/STOL). It was developed by British Aerospace and McDonnell Douglas, and is currently operated by the United States Marine Corps, the Spanish Navy, and the Italian Navy. The AV-8B Harrier II has been used in a number of combat operations, including the 1991 Gulf War, the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and the 2011 NATO intervention in Libya.

AV 8B Harrier II Units of Operation Iraqi Freedom I VI (Combat Aircraft 99)

AV-8B Harrier II Units of Operation Iraqi Freedom I-VI (Combat Aircraft Book 99)

by Robert O. Self

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14126 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	96 pages

The AV-8B Harrier II is a versatile aircraft that can be used for a variety of missions, including close air support, interdiction, and reconnaissance. It is armed with a 25 mm cannon and can carry a variety of bombs, missiles, and rockets. The AV-8B Harrier II is also equipped with a radar and a laser designator, which allow it to accurately deliver weapons on target.

The AV-8B Harrier II has a long and storied history of service with the United States Marine Corps. It was first deployed to combat in the 1991 Gulf War, where it flew over 4,000 sorties and destroyed over 100 Iraqi tanks. The AV-8B Harrier II also played a major role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq, where it provided close air support to ground forces and destroyed enemy targets. In 2011, the AV-8B Harrier II was used in the NATO intervention in Libya, where it flew over 600 sorties and helped to protect civilians from attack.

The AV-8B Harrier II is a valuable asset to the United States Marine Corps. It is a versatile aircraft that can be used for a variety of missions, and it has a long history of successful combat operations. The AV-8B Harrier II is a testament to the skill and dedication of the men and women who fly and maintain it.

Specifications

* **Length:** 46 ft 4 in * **Wingspan:** 32 ft 11 in * **Height:** 11 ft 8 in * **Weight:** 14,500 lb * **Max speed:** 650 mph * **Range:** 500 miles * **Armament:** 25 mm cannon, bombs, missiles, rockets * **Crew:** 1

Units of Operation Iraqi Freedom

The following units of the United States Marine Corps operated the AV-8B Harrier II during Operation Iraqi Freedom:

* Marine Attack Squadron 211 (VMA-211) * Marine Attack Squadron 214 (VMA-214) * Marine Attack Squadron 231 (VMA-231) * Marine Attack Squadron 311 (VMA-311) * Marine Attack Squadron 542 (VMA-542)

Combat Aircraft 99

Combat Aircraft 99 is a series of books that provides detailed information on the world's most famous combat aircraft. Each book in the series is written by an expert on the aircraft and is packed with photographs, illustrations, and technical data.

The book on the AV-8B Harrier II is written by aviation historian David Donald. It provides a comprehensive overview of the aircraft's development, design, and operational history. The book is also packed with over 100 photographs and illustrations, including many rare and unpublished images.

Combat Aircraft 99 is the definitive guide to the AV-8B Harrier II. It is a must-have for any aviation enthusiast or military historian.

The AV-8B Harrier II is a remarkable aircraft that has played a vital role in the United States Marine Corps for over 30 years. It is a versatile and powerful aircraft that has been used in a variety of combat operations around the world. The AV-8B Harrier II is a testament to the skill and dedication of the men and women who fly and maintain it.

AV-8B Harrier II Units of Operation Iraqi Freedom I-VI (Combat Aircraft Book 99)

by Robert O. Self

4.9 out of 5