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USMC Harriers line the deck of HMS Illustrious

USMC Harriers line the deck of HMS Illustrious


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USMC Harriers line the deck of HMS Illustrious

United States Marine Corps (USMC) AV8B Harriers conduct fixed wing work on HMS Illustrious ahead of Operation Bold Step. At the rear of the flight deck, an Osprey MV-22 aircraft can just be seen.
AV8B Harrier Jets from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) Combined Marine Harrier Force have begun a fixed wing work up period on board HMS Illustrious ahead of the US-led Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFX), Operation Bold Step.
The AV8B Jets are on board ILLUSTRIOUS as part of a coalition exercise taking part between the US Navy, USMC and the Royal Navy. The goal of the exercise is to demonstrate allied interoperability and the expeditionary capabilities of Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing aircraft. This exercise marks the first time that an American aviation unit of this scale has been embarked aboard a foreign warship and for the British it is the largest ever embarkation of foreign jets in a UK aircraft carrier.
The Jets have been practising ship-borne operations, a skill which is extremely challenging and requires exacting standards from both the pilots and the crew of the 22, 500 tonne warship. The principle aim is to qualify in day CVS operations; although air combat, electronic warfare training and day combat ready work-up sorties will also be conducted as part of the USMCs participation for the JTFX.
For the Ships Air Department it has proved to be an excellent training opportunity, with aircraft handlers, Air Traffic and Fighter Controllers, and the air safety organisation all playing a part in the safe and successful embarkation of the squadron.
The Flight Deck Officer, Lt Jon Llewellyn said " Having the Combined Harrier Force on board for this period has provided excellent training and regeneration opportunities for the Flight Deck teams, integrating with the USMC and building the tempo of the deck safely and efficiently. Having the AV8B jets on board has been a pleasure!"

The British Army protects the United Kingdom's interests at home and abroad, providing a safe and secure environment in which all British citizens can live and prosper

Credit: Crown Copyright/MoD

Media ID 15226682

© Crown Copyright

Aircraft Carrier Hms Illustrious


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EDITORS COMMENTS
The print captures a remarkable sight on the deck of HMS Illustrious as USMC Harriers line up, preparing for Operation Bold Step. The AV8B Harrier Jets from the United States Marine Corps have embarked on this coalition exercise with the Royal Navy and US Navy to showcase allied interoperability and the capabilities of Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing aircraft. This historic moment marks the first time an American aviation unit of this scale has been aboard a foreign warship, while also being the largest ever embarkation of foreign jets on a UK aircraft carrier. The 22,500-tonne warship is now home to these skilled pilots who are practicing ship-borne operations in challenging conditions. For both the pilots and crew, exacting standards must be met during day CVS operations qualification exercises. Additionally, air combat training, electronic warfare training, and day combat ready work-up sorties will be conducted as part of their participation in JTFX. The presence of the Combined Harrier Force onboard HMS Illustrious has provided invaluable training opportunities for all involved. Aircraft handlers, Air Traffic Controllers, Fighter Controllers, and air safety personnel have seamlessly integrated with their USMC counterparts to ensure safe and efficient operations on deck. Lt Jon Llewellyn expressed his delight at having the AV8B jets onboard stating that it has been an absolute pleasure working alongside them. This collaboration between nations not only strengthens military ties but also showcases international cooperation at its finest.

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