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US Marines' aviation arm: Five key fixed-wing aircraft

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US Marines' aviation arm: Five key fixed-wing aircraft
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The United States military operates four air forces, including the Marine Corps Aviation, which is optimized for assault and amphibious operations. The Marines use both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. Here are five fixed-wing aircraft operated by the US Marines.

The AV-8B Harrier II, with around 87 units in service, is a ground attack aircraft that entered service in 1981. Major contractors include BAE Systems and Boeing. Despite being aging, these aircraft remain in service but are being replaced by the more advanced F-35B Lightning II. "The Harriers are still being used in combat," with some seeing action in 2024. However, they are expected to retire soon.

The F/A-18 Hornet serves as a multirole fighter with approximately 138 units. It entered service in 1983 and was developed by Boeing Company and Northrop Grumman. These older jets are also being replaced by the F-35B.

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The F-35B/C Lightning II is a multirole stealth fighter with around 127 units out of a planned 420. It entered service in 2015 with Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems as major contractors. The Marines plan to operate both STOVL F-35Bs and carrier-based F-35Cs.

The KC-130 Super Hercules is an aerial refueling and logistics aircraft with 69 tankers in service since 1999. Primary contractors include Lockheed Martin and Rolls Royce Corporation. The Marine Corps states that this aircraft supports expeditionary operations through tactical aerial refueling.

Lastly, at least 12 Northrop F-5s serve as aggressor trainers for the Marines. Entering service in 1964, these supersonic light fighters were developed by Northrop Grumman. While not used for combat by the United States, they remain vital as advanced trainers.

Organizations Included in this History
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