VMAT-202

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • International Training: The squadron also provided AV-8B training for allied nations, including pilots from Spain and Italy, which operate their own Harrier variants. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.