A Maine Harrier jet pilot was rescued Saturday morning off the coast of North Carolina after ejecting from the aircraft during a training exercise.
Typically operated from small aircraft carriers, large amphibious assault ships and simple forward operating bases, AV-8Bs have participated in numerous military and humanitarian operations, proving themselves versatile assets. US Army General Norman Schwarzkopf named the USMC Harrier II as one of the seven most important weapons of the Gulf War. The aircraft took part in combat during the Iraq War beginning in 2003.
The Harrier II has served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan since 2001, and was used in Operation Odyssey Dawn in Libya in 2011. Italian and Spanish Harrier IIs have taken part in overseas conflicts in conjunction with NATO coalitions. During its service history, the AV-8B has had a high accident rate, related to the percentage of time spent in critical take-off and landing phases. USMC and Italian Navy AV-8Bs are to be replaced by the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II, with the former expected to operate its Harriers until 2025.
The unidentified Marine was transported to a Naval Hospital in Camp Lejeune, and is listed in stable condition, a military statement said. The incident is being investigated.
The pilot, who departed from Wilmington International Airport, ejected at about 5:05 a.m. local time and was rescued by an H-60 Seahawk at 5:28 a.m.