Navy and Marine Corps Aircraft: Differences, Training, and Carrier Operations

The United States Navy and US Marine Corps both rely on aircraft for their mission success, but there are distinct differences in the types of planes they fly and the roles these aircraft play. This article explores the similarities and differences in the aircraft used by each branch, the common training experiences of their pilots, and the unique challenges of carrier operations.

Types of Aircraft Used by the US Navy and Marine Corps

The US Navy and US Marine Corps use different types of jets, though these aircraft are often similar when they leave the factory. However, once these planes enter into service, they can be identified by several key differences. For instance, Marine aircraft are often painted in a way that gives them a more rugged look, which is by design, as per Marine Corps preferences.

Marine Aviators are dual-hat and first serve as Naval Aviators. They receive the same “Wings of Gold” and are part of the Navy-Marine Corps Team. Today, Marine Corps pilots fly two main types of fighter/attack aircraft: the legacy Hornet F18s, which could possibly be upgraded to Super Hornets, and the F35 Lightning II VSTOL (Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing) versions. The Super Hornets and F35s can be part of Navy Carrier Air Wings and Marine Corps amphibious assault groups respectively.

Historical Context and Training

Historically, Marines were sent through USAF flight training in the late 1960s as part of Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara’s initiative to standardize aircraft and training across the services. However, the F-111B, which was being considered, never proved carrier capable and was subsequently cancelled. The story of Marine pilots flying on the CVA66 America provides a unique example of multi-service cooperation.

During 1968-69, the Marines trained at Danang and Chu Lai. The first time Marine aviators trained by the USAF flew on board a ship was in an F4 Phantom II. Surprisingly, these pilots nearly faced fatal accidents multiple times during their training. Once they achieved qualification, they learned the differences in carrier deck operations compared to a fixed base. The Marine CO, through a classic leadership lesson, helped the pilots excel.

Carrier Qualification: A Crucial Skill

Carrier operations, whether for the Navy or the Marine Corps, present unique challenges that cannot be completely replicated in simulators. The critical role of the pilot during carrier landings cannot be overstated. Carrier aviation remains the most dangerous aviation evolution, primarily due to the small space of the carrier deck.

While new technologies are constantly being developed to aid in carrier landings, there remains a crucial human element in the form of the pilot. Pilots are trained to look down at the postage stamp-sized carrier deck and understand the necessity of landing on it, whether day or night. Simulators are highly effective, but nothing can replace actual carrier landings as the final step in creating effective carrier aviators.

Conclusion

While the US Navy and US Marine Corps use similar aircraft when they leave the factory, there are significant differences in their operations and training processes. Carrier qualification is a uniquely challenging and critical skill that cannot be fully replicated through simulation, emphasizing the importance of real-world experience in modern naval aviation.