About the Mission
Founded by veterans, for veterans. The Harrier Association exists to ensure the legacy of Marine Corps V/STOL aviation is preserved for history.
Our Mission
To preserve the history of the AV-8A, AV-8C, and AV-8B Harrier, honor the Marines and civilians who maintained and flew it, and foster a lifelong community of aviation professionals.
Honor
Recognizing the sacrifice and dedication of the men and women who served in Harrier squadrons.
Legacy
Documenting and archiving the technical achievements and combat history of the Harrier.
Brotherhood
Providing a network for veterans to reconnect, support one another, and share their experiences.
Service
Continuing to serve our communities and supporting the next generation of Marine aviators.
The AV-8 Harrier: A Brief History
The AV-8 Harrier is a family of iconic vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) ground-attack aircraft that served the U.S. Marine Corps for over five decades. The lineage began with the first-generation AV-8A and AV-8C, followed by the significantly more advanced second-generation AV-8B Harrier II and its enhanced variants, including the AV-8B II+ Radar/Night Attack.
Primarily used for close air support, armed reconnaissance, and multi-role missions, the Harrier family provided the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) with a unique and flexible capability: an aircraft that could operate from amphibious assault ships, forward operating bases, and expeditionary airfields close to the front lines.
Combat Record
The Harrier family has proven its combat effectiveness across multiple conflicts, delivering critical close air support in austere environments. From Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where Harriers flew thousands of combat sorties, to operations in the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Iraq, the aircraft repeatedly demonstrated its unique ability to operate from amphibious ships, forward bases, and expeditionary airfields — often serving as the closest fixed-wing aircraft to enemy forces.
The Association History
Founded in 2026 as a 501(c)(19) veterans organization, The Harrier Association was established by a group of retired Harrier pilots, maintainers, and dedicated supporters. The organization is committed to preserving the legacy of the AV-8 Harrier family and fostering a lasting community among those who served with the aircraft.
