V/STOL in the United States Marine Corps: The Past, Present, and Future - Why We Need the STOVL Joint Strike Fighter

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V/STOL in the United States Marine Corps: The Past, Present, and Future - Why We Need the STOVL Joint Strike Fighter

J. S. Whalen

There is a three-part argument why the Marine Corps should purchase the Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing (STOVL) Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). First, historical examples have demonstrated that the concept of STOVL employment is sound. Second, compared to the capabilities of the JSF, the current inventory of 'legacy' aircraft will be incapable of meeting the operational requirements of the future. Lastly, the doctrine of today and vision of tomorrow require that the Marine Corps field the STOVL JSF. The Falkland Islands conflict, Desert Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom demonstrated the viability and utility of STOVL operations in combat. In all three cases, the flexibility and reliability of the STOVL Harrier were vital to their overall success. The flexibility to operate from sea and land bases gave the commander a significant combat multiplier. The Marine Corps needs to acquire the STOVL JSF to replace its aging TACAIR fleet with a more survivable, flexible, and capable aircraft so that it can meet the operational requirements of the future. The STOVL JSF will have a stealthy airframe, carry precision weapons over greater distances, and have an avionics suite that will make it second to none. Additionally, it will put a premium on reliability and affordability, which will mitigate many of the problems seen in legacy aircraft. The STOVL JSF is in consonance with our current and future doctrine in that it will support the transformation and modernization of Marine TACAIR. Additionally, the STOVL JSF will be a vital part of the future sea base as articulated in Sea Power 21 and Marine Strategy 21. The STOVL JSF also will have a significant role in Sea Strike and Sea Shield, which will enable the United States to maintain access to the world's littorals and its interests abroad. Historical examples have shown that STOVL aircraft are viable and an important force multiplier.