Legendary Harrier Finds Home at Pima Air & Space Museum
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 28, 2025 – 21:47 EST
TUCSON, AZ – The Pima Air & Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona, today announced the acquisition and permanent display of a legendary AV-8B Harrier II, a vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) ground-attack aircraft that served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps for over four decades. The aircraft, officially retired from active service last year, will be a major draw for aviation enthusiasts and visitors alike.
The Harrier, bearing tail number XXXX (replaced with generic placeholder for security), arrived at the museum earlier this week after a cross-country journey from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in North Carolina. A dedicated team of museum restoration experts and former Harrier maintenance personnel from the USMC have been working diligently to prepare the aircraft for public display.
“We are incredibly honored to add this iconic aircraft to our collection,” said Scott Warner, Director of the Pima Air & Space Museum. “The Harrier is a testament to American ingenuity and the dedication of the men and women who designed, built, maintained, and flew it. Its unique V/STOL capabilities revolutionized naval aviation and its combat record speaks for itself. We believe this Harrier will provide our visitors with a tangible connection to the history of Marine Corps aviation and the critical role it plays in national defense.”
The specific Harrier model being added to the museum is an AV-8B (NA), commonly referred to as a “Night Attack” variant. This version boasts significant upgrades over earlier models, including:
- Improved Night Vision: Enhanced forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and night-vision goggle (NVG) compatibility for improved performance in low-light conditions.
- Advanced Avionics: Upgraded navigation and targeting systems, including a more powerful radar, enhancing the aircraft’s accuracy and effectiveness.
- Increased Payload Capacity: Structural improvements allowed for a greater carrying capacity of ordnance, enabling it to deliver a wider range of air-to-ground weapons.
- More Powerful Engine: Enhanced Rolls-Royce Pegasus engine providing greater thrust and improved performance.
The Harrier on display at the Pima Air & Space Museum has a distinguished operational history. While specific mission details remain classified, it is confirmed the aircraft participated in several key operations, including:
- Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan): Providing close air support to ground forces and conducting reconnaissance missions.
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (Iraq): Playing a vital role in the initial invasion and subsequent stabilization efforts.
- Various Maritime Security Operations: Demonstrating the USMC’s power projection capabilities around the globe.
“The Harrier’s V/STOL capabilities were truly groundbreaking,” explained retired Marine Corps Colonel Emily Carter, a former Harrier pilot who spoke at the unveiling ceremony. “It allowed us to operate from austere environments, forward operating bases, and amphibious assault ships where traditional fixed-wing aircraft couldn’t. Its ability to hover and precisely target enemy positions was invaluable, saving countless lives on the ground. This particular aircraft has seen its fair share of action and represents the dedication and bravery of all those who served alongside it.”
The museum plans to incorporate the Harrier into several educational programs aimed at inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aerospace professionals. Interactive displays will allow visitors to learn about the Harrier’s unique design, its operational capabilities, and the history of the aircraft within the Marine Corps.
The official unveiling of the Harrier is scheduled for March 15, 2025, and will include a special tribute to the men and women who flew and maintained the aircraft throughout its service life. The event will be open to the public.
About the Pima Air & Space Museum:
The Pima Air & Space Museum, located in Tucson, Arizona, is one of the world’s largest non-government funded aerospace museums. The museum features over 400 aircraft and spacecraft from around the globe, spread across six indoor hangars and over 80 acres of outdoor display space. Its mission is to preserve and present the history of flight and aerospace.
Contact:
Jane Doe Public Relations Officer Pima Air & Space Museum (555) 555-5555 jane.doe@pimaair.org
Legendary Harrier Finds Home at Pima Air and Space Museum
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