The United States Marine Corps has officially ended four decades of AV-8B Harrier service, concluding the program with a final flight on June 3, 2026. The retirement occurred ahead of the original 2027 schedule as the service continues to consolidate its fixed-wing operations around the Lockheed Martin F-35B and F-35C platforms.
Marine Attack Squadron 223 performed the final operational flight following a deployment aboard the USS Iwo Jima. The Marine Corps plans to field a combined force of over 260 F-35 variants by the end of the year, effectively marking the end of an era for the iconic V/STOL aircraft.
Spanish Navy Seeks Continued Capability
As the US exits the platform, the Spanish Navy is working to secure its own carrier-based air power. Reports indicate Spain will acquire five retired US Harriers to serve as a vital source of airframes and components. These aircraft will be transported as disassembled units to support the service’s goal of maintaining operational status for its remaining fleet through 2032. With the Spanish government opting against an F-35B procurement, these surplus jets are essential for preserving the naval fixed-wing aviation capability aboard the Juan Carlos I.