Photo By Pfc. Brendan King | Lance Cpl. Brianna Charpi, a power line mechanic for Marine Attack Training Squadron...... read more read more
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YUMA, Ariz. - More than 100 members of Marine Attack Training Squadron 203 recently traveled to Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., conducting AV-8B Harrier pilot training as a part of the annual Broken Resolution exercise over the deserts of southern Arizona.
Broken Resolution exposes student pilots within the squadron to air-to-surface tactics, according to Capt. Kevin T. Smalley, an instructor pilot with the squadron.
“The training consists of dive bombing, strafing, target area mechanics and close air support,” said Smalley.
During the training, VMAT-203 pilots and crew conduct aircraft maintenance, mission planning and execution, according to Smalley. Patrolling the skies over the Barry Gold M. Goldwater and Chocolate Mountain Aerial Gunnery Ranges, the student pilots practice bombing runs at angles ranging from 10-45 degrees, said Smalley.
For the student pilots, Broken Resolution offers an opportunity to experience the Harrier’s full potential.
The Marines are training to use the Harrier’s weapons systems with precision while maintaining accuracy and safety for possible future engagements, according to Smalley.
“The training offers an opportunity for Marines to drop pretty much every weapon that the Harrier can carry in Southern California and Southwest Arizona,” said Smalley.
Before departing for Broken Resolution at the end of January, the squadron conducted ground and air preparation for the training in Yuma. Several months of planning helped prepare the Marines for the month-long exercise.
Training outside Cherry Point offers a unique advantage for the squadron. Building on unit cohesion and teamwork, the squadron continues to focus on overall improvement. When the squadron returns to Cherry Point, they will begin planning for future training exercises, according to Smalley.
| Date Taken: | 02.20.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 02.20.2014 08:39 |
| Story ID: | 120883 |
| Location: | YUMA, ARIZONA, US |
| Web Views: | 307 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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