About this Unit
Marine Attack Training Squadron 202 (VMAT-202) was a United States Marine Corps aviation training unit established in 1983. Its primary mission was to train Marine aviators and maintenance personnel to operate and support the AV-8B Harrier II, a vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) attack aircraft. Stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, VMAT-202 played a crucial role in preparing pilots for assignment to Marine attack squadrons worldwide. The squadron was deactivated in 2002 as part of a restructuring of Marine Corps aviation training assets.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Activation: Marine Attack Training Squadron 202 (VMAT-202) was originally activated in 1983 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, specifically to train pilots and maintainers for the AV-8B Harrier II.
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Harrier Specialist: VMAT-202 was the first and only dedicated Marine Corps squadron tasked exclusively with training aviators in the operation of the AV-8B Harrier II, the Corps’ famed vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) jet.
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Nickname and Insignia: The squadron was known as the "Hawks," and its insignia featured a swooping hawk over a Harrier jet, symbolizing agility and strength.
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Pilot Production: Over its 20-year history, VMAT-202 trained hundreds of new Harrier pilots, many of whom went on to serve in combat operations around the globe.
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International Training: The squadron also provided AV-8B training for allied nations, including pilots from Spain and Italy, which operate their own Harrier variants.
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Safety Record: Despite the Harrier’s reputation for being a challenging aircraft, VMAT-202 maintained an impressive safety record, largely thanks to rigorous standards and experienced instructor pilots.
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Deactivation: The squadron was deactivated on October 2, 2002, as part of a restructuring effort in Marine Corps aviation and as the AV-8B fleet matured.
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Legacy in Training: After deactivation, the training mission for Harrier pilots was consolidated under VMAT-203, continuing the legacy of excellence started by VMAT-202.
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Unique Aircraft: VMAT-202 operated both the original AV-8A and later the more advanced AV-8B Harrier II, giving pilots experience with the evolution of the V/STOL platform.
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Cultural Impact: The squadron’s role and the Harrier’s unique capabilities have been featured in documentaries and military aviation literature, highlighting VMAT-202’s contribution to Marine Corps air power.
