View allAll Photos Tagged Interoperability
Infantrymen of 3rd Battalion, 69th Armored Regiment, 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division prepare to fire and qualify at an M320 grenade launcher range at an Estonian Army Training Area, Nov. 2. Despite windy conditions all Soldiers managed to adjust and qualify, hitting targets ranging from 200 to 350 meters away. These activities are part of the U.S. Army Europe-led Operation Atlantic Resolve land force assurance training taking place across Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland to enhance multinational interoperability, strengthen relationships among allied partners, contribute to regional stability and demonstrate U.S. commitment to NATO allies.
PHILIPPINE SEA (March 3, 2021) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56), the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force guided-missile destroyer JS Shiranui (DDG 120) and helicopter destroyer JS Ise (DDH 182) sail in formation during the annual U.S.-Japan Bilateral Advanced Warfighting Training Exercise. BAWT focuses on joint training and interoperability of coalition forces, and enables real-world proficiency and readiness in response to any contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deanna C. Gonzales)
NEW SOUTH WALES, Australia (July 3, 2021) - U.S. and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Airmen observe an MC-130J Air Commando II flying in formation off the coast of New South Wales, Australia during exercise Teak Action 21, July 3, 2021. Through strict COVID precautions, the 353rd Special Operations Group was able to train bilaterally with RAAF Airmen , sharing tactics and procedures to foster increased interoperability across the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Thompson) 210703-F-OD463-4003
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A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter drops off Marines with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin Aug. 21, 2014, during a live-fire exercise as part of Koolendong 2014 at the Bradshaw Field Training Area in Northern Territory, Australia. Koolendong is an amphibious and live-fire exercise designed to increase interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and Australian Defense Force. (DoD photo by Cpl. Scott Reel, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)
Pictured, The F-35B Lightning II arrives in the UK and its new home to be, RAF Marham in Norfolk.
The two F-35's pictured are marked up in UK and United States livery alongside an RAF Tornado GR4 from 31 Sqn RAF Marham which will eventually be replaced by the UK’s newest and most exciting front line fighting jet.
The image was taken on an historic day for the UK as the future of the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force combat air fleets, the F-35B Lightning II, flew over their prospective ‘homes’; Rosyth and RAF Marham in Norfolk...The fifth generation F-35B jets are the most advanced aircraft ever built for the UK and will be operated initially by 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force, known as ‘The Dambusters’ and subsequently by 809 Naval Air Squadron, ‘The Immortals’. Combined, they will transform the UK’s ability to project UK influence overseas.
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© Crown Copyright 2014
Photographer: Cpl Paul Oldfield
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PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 24, 2022) - Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Juliet Collazo, a native of Cayey, Puerto Rico, assigned to Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), signals to an MV-22B Osprey, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), as it takes off from the flight deck of Essex, Jan. 24, 2022. Essex, flagship of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), along with the 11th MEU is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with alliances and partners and serve as a ready response force to ensure maritime security and a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Wesley Richardson) 220124-N-ZW128-1284
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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 26, 2021) Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) transits the Pacific Ocean as part of a scheduled deployment. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability with allies and partners to serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tyler R. Fraser)
ANCON, Peru (Sept. 29, 2021) A Navy landing craft, air cushion currently attached to Special Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS lands on Miramar beach during UNITAS LXII. UNITAS is the world's longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Peru, it brings together multinational forces from 20 countries and includes 29 ships, four submarines, and 20 aircraft conducting operations off the coast of Lima and in the jungles of Iquitos. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations and focuses on strengthening partnerships and increasing interoperability and capability between participating naval and marine forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Hannah Hall)
PHILIPPINE SEA (Nov. 20, 2022) Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin Stack, from Grand Rapids, Mich., takes a photograph aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) as Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5 units conduct tri-lateral operations with JS Setogiri (DD 156) of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and HMAS Stalwart (A304) of the Royal Australian Navy, to focus on allied interoperability training in the areas of sustainment capability and high end warfighting in the Philippine Sea. Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of its allies and partners in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Fire Controlman 1st Class Jeremy Scott)
U.S. Marines and sailors and soldiers with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force toast at the closing ceremony for Exercise Iron Fist 2014 aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Feb. 24, 2014. Iron Fist is an amphibious exercise that brings together Marines and sailors from the 15th MEU, other I Marine Expeditionary Force units, and soldiers from the JGSDF, to promote military interoperability and hone individual and small-unit skills through challenging, complex and realistic training.
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Emmanuel Ramos/Released)
SOUTH CHINA SEA (March 20, 2020) Naval Aircrewman 1st Class Amber Barlow, assigned to the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, prepares to conduct an in-flight training exercise in an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, March 20, 2020. HSC-23 is embarked abroad the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10). Gabrielle Giffords, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brenton Poyser/Released)
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (July 14, 2021) The Pacific Partnership 2021 team, led by Capt. Jesus Rodriguez, disembark the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS City of Bismarck (T-EPF 9). City of Bismarck is serving as the mission platform for Pacific Partnership 21. Pacific Partnership, now in its 16th iteration, brings nations together to prepare during calm periods to effectively respond in times of crisis. Each year, the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joseph R. Vincent)
PHILIPPINE SEA (March 12, 2022) Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) conducts routine underway operations with USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) and USS Milius (DDG 69). Higgins is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Arthur Rosen)
PHILIPPINE SEA (May 7, 2022) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Charitee Swiftday, from Birmingham, Ala., signals to an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Vigilantes” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151, as it launches from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Julia Brockman)
BLACKOUT 21 arriving at Edinburgh for a quick stop to drop off personnel. The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment are in the UK participating in Exercise Dark Lightning, aimed at enhancing interoperability and strengthening the partnership between the UK and US armed forces.
United States Army
Boeing MH-47G Chinook
19-2918
Edinburgh Airport, Scotland
17th September 2024
The U.S. Army Special Operations Command conducted their capabilities exercise, CAPEX 19, at Fort Bragg, N.C., June 10-13, 2019.
The CAPEX 19 demonstrated the advanced skills and diverse capabilities of Army Special Operators.
The scenario, based on potential real-world Special Operations Forces mission requirements, was designed to improve interoperability with conventional forces, enhance interagency and intergovernmental partnerships and test capabilities.
The exercise incorporates volunteers, who witness first-hand, the operations, activities and actions of USASOC’s specialized subordinate commands, consisting of the 75th Ranger Regiment, 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne), U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command and the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School.
U.S. Army photo by Spc. ShaTyra Reed, 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
ANCON, Peru (Sept. 29, 2021) A Navy landing craft, air cushion currently attached to Special Marine Air-Ground Task Force UNITAS disembarks amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) during UNITAS LXII, off the coast of Ancon. UNITAS is the world's longest-running maritime exercise. Hosted this year by Peru, it brings together multinational forces from 20 countries and includes 29 ships, four submarines, and 20 aircraft conducting operations off the coast of Lima and in the jungles of Iquitos. The exercise trains forces to conduct joint maritime operations and focuses on strengthening partnerships and increasing interoperability and capability between participating naval and marine forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Hannah Hall)
Pictured are members of the Grenadier Guards taking a break during Exercise Noble Jump 17...A joint Air Assault exercise with the American 1st Battalion, 3 Aviation Regiment, 12 Combat Aviation Brigade. The troops practised joint operations and interoperability...Exercise Noble Jump 17 is a logistical challenge that tests the ability of all the participants to deliver a fighting force to wherever it is needed. ..All movements were controlled by NATO's Multi-National Division South East HQ, based in Bucharest. The VJTF is kept on short notice to move and is able to deploy a powerful well-trained force within days. This year, it is being led by the UK's 20 Armoured Brigade. ..Overseeing the VJTF’s training at Cincu was a combination of Joint Force Command Naples, Multi-National division South East and the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps.
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© Crown Copyright 2014
Photographer: WO2 Dan Harmer
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SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 9, 2019) Ships from ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)-Plus navies sail in formation during ADMM-Plus Maritime Security Field Training Exercise 2019. The exercise focused on enhanced cooperation between ADMM-Plus nations and information sharing, interoperability and multinational response to maritime security issues. (Photo courtesy of Singapore Ministry of Defence)
PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 21, 2022) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Devin Reynoso, from Port Hueneme, California, directs an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the "Tophatters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Javier Reyes)
Pictured is an RAF Gunner (in front of an RAF Atlas) providing force protection for RAF assets and partner nations during Ex Mobility Guardian. Operating out of Moses Lake Airfield, Washington, the gunners have been working alongside Australian and Belgian counterparts..An RAF Atlas aircraft, and RAF movements personnel, have been transporting US Military vehicles on Exercise Mobility Guardian. Operating from Joint Base Lewis McChord, and Moses Lake Airfield, they have transported Humvee ambulance variants (pictured) and Stryker Command Vehicles...A Royal Air Force Atlas, Aeromedical Evacuation and Force Protection personnel training with Allies and Partners from over 30 countries on Exercise Mobility Guardian, the largest exercise of its type in the world...Hosted by the US Air Force’s Air Mobility Command, over 50 aircraft and 3000 personnel from over 30 nations gathered at Joint Base Lewis McChord near Seattle for an exercise designed to test and improve how international partners and allies conduct humanitarian relief operations...Security for the airfield was provided by a team of Force Protection specialists led by No 2 Squadron, RAF Regiment supported by RAF Police, reservists from the RAuxAF Regiment and personnel from Australia and Belgium...This was the first time an RAF A400M Atlas has taken part in a major exercise giving personnel the opportunity to experience the aircraft’s capabilities in a realistic operational environment and to train for complex, modern air operations alongside NATO partners, key allies and international partners.
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© Crown Copyright 2014
Photographer: SAC Nicholas Egan RAF
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A Norwegian F-35 Lightning II closes the gap for a mid-air refueling from a Maine Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker above the Arctic Circle, May 29, 2023. The crews are participating in a live fly exercise that serves to advance arctic security initiatives and enhance interoperability in the increasingly dynamic and contested region. (Photo by Master Sgt. Andrew Sinclair)
1st Battalion Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Soldiers, in their Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicles during NATO Exercise Allied Spirit 8.
Approximately 200 soldiers from 1st Battalion Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (1PWRR) were among 4,000 soldiers from 10 different NATO countries participating in Exercise Allied Spirit 8 in Southern Germany.
The NATO assurance measurement exercise is designed to develop relationships and promote interoperability and integration with NATO, Allied and Coalition partners.
During the exercise 1PWRR have been under the command of a Polish Mechanised Brigade delivering the Armoured Infantry element along with a company of Danish Armoured Infantry.
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© Crown Copyright 2014
Photographer: Mr Dominic King
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Pictured is a Royal Marines Boarding Team in action.
While HMS Diamond was alongside in the French naval base, Toulon, the Royal Marines Boarding Team (RMBT) took the opportunity to practice their abseiling from the side of the SNMG2 flagship.
The RMBT use this skill in case there is no other safe way to disembark from a craft they have boarded.
The activity took place during Brilliant Mariner 17, a NATO-Led interoperability exercise to certify France Maritime Component Command (MCC) capability as the preparation of NATO Response Force 2018.
In 2017, Brilliant Mariner 17, involved 3500 service members from 13 nations, 27 warships, 2 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, 1 submarine as well as amphibious assets.
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© Crown Copyright 2014
Photographer: L(Phot) Paul Hall
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SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 25, 2020) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10) conducts routine operations in the South China Sea, May 25, 2020. Gabrielle Giffords, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brenton Poyser)
PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 19, 2020) - A U.S. Air Force CV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft assigned to the Air Force 21st Special Operations Squadron stands by on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group and assigned to Amphibious Squadron 11, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Walter Estrada) 201019-N-NJ919-1018
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ANCON, Peru (Sept. 29, 2021) A Navy landing craft, air cushion currently attached to Special Marine Air-Ground Task Force - UNITAS lands on Miramar beach during UNITAS LXII. UNITAS is the world’s longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise that focuses on enhancing interoperability among multiple nations and joint forces during littoral, amphibious and Amazonian operations in order to build on existing regional partnerships and create new enduring relationships that promote peace, stability and prosperity in the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Hannah Hall)
U.S. and Royal Australian Air Force airmen observe an MC-130J Air Commando II flying in formation off the coast of New South Wales, Australia, during exercise Teak Action 21, July 3, 2021. Through strict COVID-19 precautions, the 353rd Special Operations Group was able to train bilaterally with RAAF airmen, sharing tactics and procedures to foster increased interoperability across the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Joshua Thompson)
LNER Class 801/1 No.801112 and Class 800/2 No.800210 speed past Holme Green crossing on 19th March 2022, operating as a 10-car formation on the 1S08 07:30 London King's Cross-Edinburgh service. This is probably the first time I've reliably captured both bi-mode and electric examples of the 5-car Azuma sub-fleets working in multiple.
Cpl. Cruz A. Nunez, right, spots targets for Cpl. Jarrod L. Henry as he engages targets with his M40 A5 sniper rifle as part of an unknown distance qualification range August 18 at Bradshaw Field Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, during Exercise Koolendong 14. The range focused on increasing scout sniper's long range precision firing capabilities. The Marines challenged themselves with the M40 A5, M110 SASS and the M107 SASR. Marines are with Scout Sniper Platoon, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment and are currently deployed in part of the Marine Rotational Force Darwin. The rotational deployment of U.S. Marines affords an unprecedented combined training opportunity with their Australian allies, and improves interoperability with their forces. Nunez, a Greeley, Colorado native, is a scout sniper assigned to the platoon. Henry, a Potterville, Michigan native, is a mortarman assigned to the platoon. (Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Joey S. Holeman, Jr./ Released)
Camp Douglas, Wis - Marines with Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 311 pose in front of a successfully loaded McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) AV-8B "Harrier II" during Exercise Northern Lightning at Volk Field Counterland Training Center, Camp Douglas, Wis. Aug. 14. Exercise Northern Lightning 2018 allows the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy to strengthen interoperability between services and gives the different branches a greater understanding of aviation capabilities within a joint fighting force.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) AV-8B Harrier II is a single-engine ground-attack aircraft that constitutes the second generation of the "Harrier Jump Jet" family. Capable of vertical or short takeoff and landing (V/STOL), the aircraft was designed in the late 1970s as an Anglo-American development of the British Hawker Siddeley Harrier, the first operational V/STOL aircraft. The aircraft is primarily employed on light attack or multi-role missions, ranging from close air support of ground troops to armed reconnaissance. The AV-8B is used by the United States Marine Corps (USMC), the Spanish Navy, and the Italian Navy. A variant of the AV-8B, the British Aerospace Harrier II, was developed for the British military, while another, the TAV-8B, is a dedicated two-seat trainer.
The project that eventually led to the AV-8Bs creation started in the early 1970s as a cooperative effort between the United States and United Kingdom (UK), aimed at addressing the operational inadequacies of the first-generation Harrier. Early efforts centered on a larger, more powerful Pegasus engine to dramatically improve the capabilities of the Harrier. Due to budgetary constraints, the UK abandoned the project in 1975.
Following the withdrawal of the UK, McDonnell Douglas extensively redesigned the earlier AV-8A Harrier to create the AV-8B. While retaining the general layout of its predecessor, the aircraft incorporates a new wing, an elevated cockpit, a redesigned fuselage, one extra hardpoint per wing, and other structural and aerodynamic refinements. The aircraft is powered by an upgraded version of the Pegasus, which gives the aircraft its V/STOL ability. The AV-8B made its maiden flight in November 1981 and entered service with the USMC in January 1985. Later upgrades added a night-attack capability and radar, resulting in the AV-8B(NA) and AV-8B Harrier II Plus, respectively. An enlarged version named Harrier III was also studied, but not pursued. The UK, through British Aerospace, re-joined the improved Harrier project as a partner in 1981, giving it a significant work-share in the project. After corporate mergers in the 1990s, Boeing and BAE Systems have jointly supported the program. Approximately 340 aircraft were produced in a 22-year production program that ended in 2003.
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. U.S. Army General Norman Schwarzkopf named the USMC Harrier II as one of several important weapons in 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.
Development
Origins
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the first-generation Harriers entered service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and United States Marine Corps (USMC), but were handicapped in range and payload. In short takeoff and landing configuration, the AV-8A (American designation for the Harrier) carried less than half the 4,000 lb (1,800 kg) payload of the smaller Douglas A-4 Skyhawk, over a more limited radius. To address this issue, Hawker Siddeley and McDonnell Douglas began joint development of a more capable version of the Harrier in 1973. Early efforts concentrated on an improved Pegasus engine, designated the Pegasus 15, which was being tested by Bristol Siddeley. Although more powerful, the engine's diameter was too large by 2.75 in (70 mm) to fit into the Harrier easily.
In December 1973, a joint American and British team completed a project document defining an "Advanced Harrier" powered by the Pegasus 15 engine. The "Advanced Harrier" was intended to replace the original RAF and USMC Harriers, as well as the USMC's A-4. The aim of the "Advanced Harrier" was to double the AV-8's payload and range, and was therefore unofficially named AV-16. The British government pulled out of the project in March 1975 owing to decreased defense funding, rising costs, and the RAF's insufficient 60-aircraft requirement. With development costs estimated to be around £180–200 million (1974 British pounds), the United States was unwilling to fund development by itself, and ended the project later that year.
Despite the project's termination, the two companies continued to take different paths toward an enhanced Harrier. Hawker Siddeley focused on a new larger wing that could be retrofitted to existing operational aircraft, while McDonnell Douglas independently pursued a less ambitious, though still expensive, project catering to the needs of the US military. Using knowledge gleaned from the AV-16 effort, though dropping some items—such as the larger Pegasus engine—McDonnell Douglas kept the basic structure and engine for an aircraft tailored for the USMC.
Designing and testing
As the USMC wanted a substantially improved Harrier without the development of a new engine, the plan for Harrier II development was authorized by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) in 1976. The United States Navy (USN), which had traditionally procured military aircraft for the USMC, insisted that the new design be verified with flight testing. McDonnell Douglas modified two AV-8As with new wings, revised intakes, redesigned exhaust nozzles, and other aerodynamic changes; the modified forward fuselage and cockpit found on all subsequent aircraft were not incorporated on these prototypes. Designated YAV-8B, the first converted aircraft flew on 9 November 1978, at the hands of Charles Plummer. The aircraft performed three vertical take-offs and hovered for seven minutes at Lambert–St. Louis International Airport. The second aircraft followed on 19 February 1979, but crashed that November due to engine flameout; the pilot ejected safely. Flight testing of these modified AV-8s continued into 1979. The results showed greater than expected drag, hampering the aircraft's maximum speed. Further refinements to the aerodynamic profile yielded little improvement. Positive test results in other areas, including payload, range, and V/STOL performance, led to the award of a development contract in 1979. The contract stipulated a procurement of 12 aircraft initially, followed by a further 324.
Between 1978 and 1980, the DoD and USN repeatedly attempted to terminate the AV-8B program. There had previously been conflict between the USMC and USN over budgetary issues. At the time, the USN wanted to procure A-18s for its ground attack force and, to cut costs, pressured the USMC to adopt the similarly-designed F-18 fighter instead of the AV-8B to fulfill the role of close air support (both designs were eventually amalgamated to create the multirole F/A-18 Hornet). Despite these bureaucratic obstacles, in 1981, the DoD included the Harrier II in its annual budget and five-year defense plan. The USN declined to participate in the procurement, citing the limited range and payload compared with conventional aircraft.
In August 1981 the program received a boost when British Aerospace (BAe) and McDonnell Douglas signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), marking the UK's re-entry into the program. The British government was enticed by the lower cost of acquiring Harriers promised by a large production run, and the fact that the US was shouldering the expense of development. Under the agreement BAe was relegated to the position of a subcontractor, instead of the full partner status that would have been the case had the UK not left the program. Consequently, the company received, in man-hours, 40 percent of the airframe work-share. Aircraft production took place at McDonnell Douglas' facilities in suburban St. Louis, Missouri, and manufacturing by BAe at its Kingston and Dunsfold facilities in Surrey, England. Meanwhile, 75 percent work-share for the engine went to Rolls-Royce, which had previously absorbed Bristol Siddeley, with the remaining 25 percent assigned to Pratt & Whitney. The two companies planned to manufacture 400 Harrier IIs, with the USMC expected to procure 336 aircraft and the RAF, 60.
Four full-scale development (FSD) aircraft were constructed. The first of these (BuNo 161396), used mainly for testing performance and handling qualities, made its maiden flight on 5 November 1981, piloted by Plummer. The second and third FSD aircraft, which introduced wing leading-edge root extensions and revised engine intakes, first flew in April the following year; the fourth followed in January 1984. The first production AV-8B was delivered to the Marine Attack Training Squadron 203 (VMAT-203) at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point (MCAS Cherry Point) on 12 December 1983, and officially handed over one month later. The last of the initial batch of 12 was delivered in January 1985 to the front-line Marine Attack Squadron 331 (VMA-331). The engine used for these aircraft was the F402-RR-404A, with 21,450 lb (95.4 kN) of thrust; aircraft from 1990 onwards received upgraded engines.
U.S. Army paratroopers with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team participate in Saber Junction 2014 at Hohenfels Training Area in Germany Aug. 28, 2014. Saber Junction is a U.S. Army Europe-led exercise designed to prepare U.S. and international partner forces for a NATO deployment to Afghanistan. (DoD photo by Sgt. Christina M. Dion, U.S. Army/Released)
A U.S. Soldier ascting the role of opposing forces with the 1st Cavalry Division fires an M240 machine gun during exercise Combined Resolve XI, Dec. 4, 2018, at Hohenfels Training Area, Germany. CBRXI exercise gives the U.S. Armyâs regionally allocated combat forces in Europe the opportunity to execute a combat training center rotation with a joint, multinational environment demonstrating their integration into U.S. Army Europe operations. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. John Onuoha) www.dvidshub.net/
Slovenian troops from the 45 Center for Tracked Combat Vehicles (CGBV), operate M-84 main battle tanks during Exercise Allied Spirit IV at the U.S. Army’s Joint Multinational Training Center in Hohenfels Training Area, Germany (JMRC HTA), Jan. 21, 2016. The Slovenians partnered with U.S. Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment to play opposition forces during the training. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Brianne Roudebush/Released)
Three Norwegian F-35s wait in formation as the rest of their team receives fuel from a MAINEiac KC-135 Stratotanker above the Arctic Circle, May 29, 2023. The crews are taking part in Arctic Challenge Exercise 2023, a live fly exercise that serves to advance arctic security initiatives and enhance interoperability in the increasingly dynamic and contested region. (Photo by Master Sgt. Andrew Sinclair)
PHILIPPINE SEA (March 15, 2022) Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76), foreground, conducts routine underway operations with Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Dewey (DDG 105) and USS Milius (DDG 69). Higgins is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Arthur Rosen)
PTC interoperability continues to give us something other than orange to look at out here in the Southwest. Today's take has a 2 month old rebuilt NS AC44C6M leading the Z-AUGSBD7-11A across the Transcon with a BNSF Tier 4 and an older ES44. The 4405 was rebuilt from the NS 9203 at Wabtec in Ft. Worth and released in January 2021.
Also of interest in this shot is the ATS inductor still in place for M2. I did a shot of an eastbound train passing the other one on M1 about 5 weeks ago. Today I noticed that its been removed.
Interoperability: German Lynx conducting deck landing training on HMS OCEAN during TJ15, with RN Fleet Air Arm Merlin Mk2 in foreground. 25 Oct 15
WATERS EAST OF THE KOREAN PENINSULA (Sept. 30, 2022) The Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65), Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy destroyer ROKS Munmu the Great (DDH 976) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer JS Asahi (DD 119), break formation in waters east of the Korean Peninsula. Ronald Reagan, operating as the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, is conducting a trilateral anti-submarine warfare exercise with the JMSDF and ROK Navy. The operations between the Reagan Strike Group, JS Asahi, and ROKS Munmu The Great, involved operating with a U.S. submarine to enhance interoperability between the nations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gray Gibson)
PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 26, 2021) - Two F-35B Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, embarked on the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08); and two F-35C Lightning II assigned to Strike Fight Squadron (VFA) 147, an EA-18G Growler, assigned to U.S. Navy Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136, and an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 192, embarked on aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), conduct mid-air refueling in support of joint interoperability flights between Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (VINCSG) and U.K. Carrier Strike Group (CSG-21). Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability with allies and partners to serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Bart Crowder) 210826-N-NO250-1015
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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 5, 2021) An MH-60S Seahawk helicopter prepares to lift cargo from the flight deck of the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9) during a replenishment-at-sea with the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jomark A. Almazan)
SOUTH CHINA SEA (Dec. 19, 2021) Sailors remove chocks and chains from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the “Blackjacks” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21, on the flight deck of the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Tulsa (LCS 16). Tulsa, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Devin M. Langer)
KUCHING, Malaysia (March 28, 2019) Pacific Partnership 2019 personnel stand at parade rest as the Military Sealift Command expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Fall River (T-EPF 4) arrives at the Port of Kuching. Pacific Partnership, now in its 14th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nicholas Burgains)
PALAWAN/OZAMIS, Philippines (April 19, 2023) - U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey pilots with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 362 (Rein.), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, lower a pallet of meals, ready to eat to the ground in support of helicopter support team training during Exercise Balikatan 23 in Palawan, Philippines, on April 19, 2023. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Carl Matthew Ruppert) 230419-M-VS123-1182
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PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 17, 2021) An MV-22B Osprey from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) takes off from the flight deck of forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during a long-range raid exercise. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Thomas B. Contant)
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska (May 19, 2023) – A U.S. Navy F-35C Lightning II assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 147 (VFA-147) receives fuel from a Royal Air Force KC-30 Voyager during Northern Edge 23-1 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, May 19, 2023. NE 23-1 provides an opportunity for joint, multinational and multi-domain operations designed to implement high-end, realistic war fighter training, develop and improve joint interoperability, and enhance the combat readiness of participating forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Shelimar Rivera Rosado) 230519-F-YB356-1259
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A Luxembourg Army soldier stands guard next to a armored infantry mobility vehicle during exercise Saber Junction 15 at the U.S. Army’s Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, April 23, 2015. Saber Junction 15 prepares NATO and partner nation forces for offensive, defensive, and stability operations and promotes interoperability among participants. Saber Junction 15 has more than 4,700 participants from 17 countries, to include: Albania, Armenia, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Great Britain, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Sweden, Turkey and the U.S. (U.S. Army photo by Visual Information Specialist Markus Rauchenberger/Released)
PHILIPPINE SEA (Dec. 22, 2021) - An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Stingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, launches off the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Micheal Mensah) 211222-N-RU001-1093
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Children in Accra, Ghana, play while observing closing ceremonies of Africa Endeavor 2010.
Photo by U.S. Army Africa
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Africa Endeavor 2010 came to a close Aug. 20 with a ceremony held at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College parade grounds in Accra, Ghana.
AE 2010 is a U.S. Africa Command-sponsored initiative intended to enhance interoperability and information exchange among African nations via communication networks and subsequent collaborative links with the United States, African Union and other African partners that share common goals of stability, security and sustainment.
"Future operations in Africa depend on the combined multinational militaries of the nations represented here today in order to effectively communicate amongst themselves," said Maj. Gen. David R. Hogg, U.S. Army Africa commanding general.
During the annual two-week communications exercise, participants from 36 African nations, the AU, the Economic Community of Western African States, the Economic Community of Central African States, the United States and several European partners worked together to develop standard tactics, techniques and procedures to be used in future humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and peace support missions.
New areas of expertise addressed in Africa Endeavor 2010 included the first radio call to a vessel at sea from an AE event site. The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk sailing off the coast of Africa ran the test, allowing AE participants to challenge themselves in establishing land-to-sea communications. After a couple attempts, the land-to-sea radio call was a success, proving that African nations could maintain communication between inland locations and their maritime forces.
"We are fighting for unity and interoperability with our partners to establish high levels of efficiency," said Lt. Gen. Peter Blay, Chief, Defense Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces. "The outcome of AE 2010 has given assurance that we are on track to achieve the ultimate goal of interoperability between our forces."
Another incorporated training event was a satellite call conducted from the AE site in Accra to the AU Peace Support Operations Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The demonstration showed AE participants how useful reliable communication between the nations and the AU is during times of disaster relief.
"The newly incorporated signal techniques will be planned for and incorporated in future exercises," said U.S. Navy Cmdr. Britt Talbert, AE 2010 exercise director.
Through newly incorporated training and careful planning, AE 2010 proved to achieve its goal of taking a step forward in improving interoperability and creating new ties between African nations.
"By taking part in this event we have demonstrated a commitment to harness the power of communication technology for ensuring the long-term peace, stability, and prosperity of the African continent," said Hogg.
“Africa Endeavor is a great opportunity to meet people and it gives us an opportunity to check interoperability communications for all military personnel,” said Maj. Bachirou Farta of Burkina-Faso.
“Here we have the opportunity to know another country, and this is very important because of the many different cultures in Africa. When I go back to my country, I will teach my people many things from my good experiences here for the military,” he said.
African nations participating in AE 2010 included Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Chad, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, The Gambia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Seychelles, Southern Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda and Zambia.
The first AE was held in Pretoria, South Africa, in 2006. Subsequent exercises took place in Abuja, Nigeria, in 2008 and in Libreville, Gabon, in 2009.
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