Aviation Combat Element: Purpose

Marines in the Aviation Combat Element conduct aviation operations using the full Marine Corps fleet of aircraft to support ground forces 
in support of the mission.  
 
The Marine Corps fleet includes fixed-wing aircraft including: 
F/A -18 Hornet fighter jet 
AV-8B Harrier jet  
KC-130 Hercules tactical airlifter 
EA-6B Prowler jet 
 
The Marine Corps also maintains rotary wing aircraft: 
AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters  
UH-1 utility helicopter  
CH-53 heavy-lift helicopter  
CH-46 medium-lift helicopter  
MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft  
 
There are six aviation functions performed with this fleet: Offensive air support, anti-air warfare, assault support, air reconnaissance, electronic warfare and control of aircraft and missiles.  
 
Marines in Aviation Combat Element are prepared to operate both from permanent bases and mobile installations, such as ships and expeditionary airfields constructed in the forward progress of battle.