The McDonnellDouglas (now Boeing) AV-8B Harrier II is asingle-engine ground-attackaircraft that constitutes the second generation ofthe Harrier family,capable of vertical or short takeoff andlanding (V/STOL). The aircraft is primarilyemployed on light attack or multi-role missions, ranging from close airsupport of ground troops to armed reconnaissance. The AV-8B is used bythe United States Marine Corps (USMC),the Spanish Navy,and the Italian Navy.
The AV-8B saw extensive action in theGulf War of 1990–91. Aircraft based on USS Nassau and Tarawa, and at on-shore bases, initiallyflew training and support sorties,as well as practicing with coalition forces. The AV-8Bs were to be held inreserve during the initial phase of the preparatory air assault of OperationDesert Storm.
During Operations Desert Shield andDesert Storm, 86 AV-8Bs amassed 3,380 flights and about 4,100 flight hours, witha mission availability rate of over 90% FiveAV-8Bs were lost to enemy surface-to-air missiles,and two USMC pilots were killed.