By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
On June 9, 2024, the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Special Operations Capable (SOC) deployed a detachment comprising U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier jets, MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, and supporting personnel. This deployment was a part of exercise BALTOPS 24, a premier maritime-focused military exercise in the Baltic region.
The aircraft and personnel are assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (Reinforced), which operates under the 24th MEU (SOC). This unit is currently deployed with the U.S. Navy Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG).
Lt. Col. Cory Jobst, commanding officer of VMM-365 (REIN), emphasized the historical significance of this deployment, stating, “Our self-deploying and self-sustaining detachment demonstrates the ARG-MEU’s ability to project force more than 900 nautical miles and establish a forward operating base in the Baltic region. This expeditionary advanced base is a historic first with our longstanding partner, and newest NATO Ally, Sweden.”
The AV-8B Harrier II is a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) ground-attack aircraft. It is renowned for its versatility and ability to operate from forward bases and amphibious assault ships. The Harrier’s Rolls-Royce Pegasus engine allows it to perform vertical/short takeoffs and landings, providing flexibility in various combat and support roles. This capability is crucial for the rapid deployment and establishment of forward operating bases, such as the one set up at Ronneby Airport.
However, the MV-22B Osprey is a tiltrotor aircraft that combines the vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of a helicopter with the speed and range of a fixed-wing aircraft. Its twin Rolls-Royce AE 1107C engines enable it to transition from helicopter mode to airplane mode, making it ideal for expeditionary operations. The Osprey’s versatility enhances the MEU’s operational reach, allowing for quick insertion and extraction of troops, equipment, and supplies.
The deployment’s self-sustaining and self-deploying nature demonstrates the ARG-MEU’s capability to project force over 900 nautical miles and establish a forward operating base in the Baltic region. This capability is essential in modern warfare, where rapid response and flexibility can significantly impact mission success.
When comparing the AV-8B Harrier II and the MV-22B Osprey to other aircraft in similar roles, several advantages and limitations emerge. The Harrier’s STOVL capabilities are unmatched by conventional fixed-wing aircraft, allowing operations from austere environments and amphibious ships. However, it is outclassed in terms of speed, range, and payload by more modern aircraft such as the F-35B Lightning II, which is also a STOVL platform but with enhanced stealth and sensor capabilities.
The MV-22B Osprey, on the other hand, offers unparalleled versatility compared to traditional helicopters like the CH-53E Super Stallion or the UH-60 Black Hawk. Its ability to operate as both a helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft extends its operational range and speed, although it comes at a higher cost and with more complex maintenance requirements.
The participation of the USS Wasp (LHD 1) and USS New York (LPD 21) in BALTOPS 24 shows the strategic importance of amphibious ready groups in modern naval warfare. These vessels provide critical support for the embarked 24th MEU (SOC), enabling them to conduct high-end warfighting exercises and demonstrate speed and agility in a dynamic security environment.
BALTOPS 24 exercise is part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Large Scale Global Exercise (LSGE) series, which aims to improve shared understanding, trust, and interoperability among allies and partners. The deployment of the 24th MEU (SOC) to Sweden for BALTOPS 24 exemplifies the advanced capabilities and strategic importance of the U.S. Marine Corps and Navy in maintaining global security.
