Alerts Sign-up
Built with ingenuity and engineering excellence, numerous iconic aircraft have served the US Marine Corps, influencing military aviation beyond their time. Among these are five notable models.
The Vought F4U Corsair, often called the "Bent-Wing Bird," was a key player during World War II and the Korean War. Its design allowed it to achieve speeds of 400 mph (644 km/h), outperforming enemy aircraft in combat. It excelled in ground attack missions crucial for supporting infantry during campaigns such as Okinawa and Iwo Jima. The National Museum of the US Navy highlights its role in achieving air superiority over the Pacific, noting its ruggedness and versatility.
The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II served as a multirole fighter-bomber during the Vietnam War and Cold War. Its twin engines supported various missions from reconnaissance to air superiority. Capable of carrying up to 18,650 lbs (8,460 kg) of ordnance, it was among the fastest jet fighters of its era.
