An AV-8B Harrier of the VX-9 Vampires in lowel level flight. Capable of vertical take off's and landings this subsonic fighter is utilized by the Marines as a light ground attack airplane. Powered by a Rolls Royce F402-RR-408 Pegasus vectored thrust turbofan the aircraft has a maximum speed of 629 mph with a range of 685 miles,

Based in China Lake, California, The VX-9 Vampires mission includes operational evaluation of attack, fighter, and electronic warfare aircraft, weapons systems and equipment, and to develop tactical procedures for their employment.