Reinforced with helicopters and jump-jets, the Marine Medium Tiltrotor squadron is the core of the Aviation Combat Element within the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). The Bell Boeing tiltrotor today gives the MAGTF a fast, long-ranged "connector" to haul sea-based Marines, equipment and supplies from amphibious warfare ships to shore, and to maneuver forces once ashore. The V-22 Aerial Refueling System (VARS) - expected operational in 2019 - will enable the same aircraft to extend the range and time-on-station of jets, heavy-lift helicopters and other Ospreys. According to US Marine Corps headquarters, VARS will be a huge force multiplier for both the sea-based MAGTF and forward-deployed expeditionary forces.
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