HA2609 - AV-8B Harrier US Marines VMA-542 "Tigers"

In April 1986 the USMC VMA-542 (Tigers) transitioned from the earlier Harriers to the AV-8B+. This gave the squadron a greater V/STOL capability as well as extending the range and increasing the payload. The most up to date navigation and weapon delivery systems were also incorporated.VMA-542 was initially commissioned on March 6, 1944 as VMF(N)-542. The "Tigers" are based at MCAS Cherry Point North Carolina and are tasked with providing offensive and defensive air support and reconnaissance for Marine expeditionary forces. The 542nd has participated in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Kosovo and Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007-8.