The AV-8B V/STOL strike aircraft was designed to exchange the AV-8A and also the A-4M lightweight attack aircraft. The Marine Corps requirement for a V/STOL lightweight attack force has been well documented since the late 1950's. Combining tactical mobility, responsiveness, reduced operating value and basing flexibility, each afloat and ashore, V/STOL aircraft are significantly well-suited to the special combat and expeditionary requirements of the Marine Corps. The AV-8BII+ features the APG-65 Radar common to the F/A-18, also all previous systems and features common to the AV-8BII.
The AV-8B Harrier is a single-seat, lightweight attack aircraft that provides offensive air support to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). By virtue of its Vertical/Short Take-Off or Landing (V/STOL) capability, the AV-8B can operate from a range of amphibious ships, rapidly created expeditionary airfields, forward sites (e.g., roads), and broken standard airfields. This makes the aircraft significantly well-suited for providing dedicated close air support.
