F-35 Lightning II

Infobox Aircraft
name=F-35 Lightning II

---

caption = The F-35 Lightning II takes off for its first flight at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base on 15 December 2006.
type=Stealth multi-role fighter
manufacturers=Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Northrop Grumman BAE Systems
first flight=15 December 2006 [ [https://www.teamjsf.com/jsf/data.nsf/7074259f3965fd0985256f43007b0964/7f70d66a0aaef181852573540049ead4?OpenDocument F-35 First Flight] , "TeamJSF.com". Retrieved: 10 October 2007.]
introduction= avyear|2011 (scheduled)
status=Under development / pre-production
produced=2003-present
number built= 13 flight-test aircraft; ["Jane's All the World's Aircraft". " [http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=139220 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II] ", (Online version, January 21, 2008). Accessed April 19, 2008. (Less than 8 were completed prior to April 1, 2008.)]
14 LRIP aircraft on order.
unit cost=US$83 million
(flyaway cost in Then-Year dollars) [http://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-080204-081.pdf "FY 2009 Budget Estimates." p. 1–1.] United States Air Force. February 2008.]
developed from= Lockheed Martin X-35
variants with their own articles=

The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is a single-seat, single-engine, stealth-capable military strike fighter, a multi-role aircraft that can perform close air support, tactical bombing, and air superiority fighter missions. The F-35 has three different models; one is the conventional takeoff and landing variant, the second is short takeoff and vertical-landing variant, and the third is a carrier-based variant.

The F-35 is descended from the X-35, the product of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. Its development is being principally funded by the United States, with the United Kingdom and other partner governments providing additional funding. [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-int.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II – International Partners] , GlobalSecurity.org] It is being designed and built by an aerospace industry team led by Lockheed Martin with Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems as major partners. Demonstrator aircraft flew in 2000, [ [http://www.jsf.mil/history/his_jsf.htm JSF program history] , JSF.mil] with the first flight on 15 December 2006. [ [http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=2731034 "F-35 Test Flight Deemed a Success"] , ABC News, 16 December 2006.]

Development

JSF Program history

Requirement

The JSF program was created to replace various aircraft while keeping development, production, and operating costs down. This was pursued by building three variants of one aircraft, sharing 80% of their parts:
* F-35A, conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant.
* F-35B, short-takeoff and vertical-landing (STOVL) variant.
* F-35C, carrier-based (CV) variant.

The F-35 is being designed to be the world's premier strike aircraft through 2040. It is intended that its close and long-range air-to-air capability will be second only to that of the F-22 Raptor. [ [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/products/f35/f-35-capabilities.html F-35 Capabilities] , Lockheed Martin.] Specifically the F-35’s requirements are that it be: four times more effective than legacy fighters in air-to-air combat, eight times more effective in air-to-ground battle combat, and three times more effective in reconnaissance and suppression of air defenses. These capabilities are to be achieved while still having significantly better range and require less logistics support than legacy aircraft. [ [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II] , GlobalSecurity.org.]

Origins and selection

The Joint Strike Fighter evolved out of several requirements for a common fighter to replace existing types. The actual JSF development contract was signed on 16 November 1996.

The contract for System Development and Demonstration (SDD) was awarded on 26 October 2001 to Lockheed Martin, whose X-35 beat the Boeing X-32. DoD officials and British Minister of Defence Procurement Lord Bach, said the X-35 consistently outperformed the X-32, although both met or exceeded requirements. The designation of the fighter as "F-35" came as a surprise to Lockheed, which had been referring to the aircraft in-house by the designation "F-24". [ [http://www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/nonstandard-mds.html#_MDS_F35 Designation Systems] ]

Naming

On 7 July 2006, the U.S. Air Force officially announced the name of the F-35: Lightning II," [http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/JSF_F-35_2006_Inauguration%20Press%20Release.doc Lockheed Martin Joint Strike Fighter Officially Named 'Lightning II.'] " Official Joint Strike Fighter program office press release. 7 July 2006.] in honor of Lockheed's World War II-era twin-prop P-38 Lightning and the Cold War-era jet, the English Electric Lightning. English Electric Company's aircraft division was incorporated into BAC, a predecessor of F-35 partner BAE Systems. Other names previously listed as contenders were Kestrel, Phoenix, Piasa, Black Mamba and Spitfire II. Lightning II was also an early company name for the aircraft that became the F-22 Raptor. The name has still yet to be determined formally however.

International participation

While the United States is the primary customer and financial backer, the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, Turkey, Australia, Norway and Denmark have agreed to contribute US$4.375 billion toward the development costs of the program. Total development costs are estimated at more than US$40 billion (underwritten largely by the United States), while the purchase of an estimated 2,400 planes is expected to cost an additional US$200 billion. [Merle, Renae. [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A38236-2005Mar15.html "GAO Questions Cost Of Joint Strike Fighter."] "Washington Post", 15 March 2005. Retrieved: 15 July 2007.] The nine major partner nations plan to acquire over 3,100 F-35s through 2035, [ [http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/ANNEX%20A%20Revision_April%202007.pdf Estimated JSF Air Vehicle Procurement Quantities] , JSF.mil, April 2007.] making the F-35 one of the most numerous jet fighters.

There are three levels of international participation. The levels generally reflect the financial stake in the program, the amount of technology transfer and subcontracts open for bid by national companies, and the order in which countries can obtain production aircraft. The United Kingdom is the sole "Level 1" partner, contributing US$2.5 billion, about 10% of the development costs [ [https://www.teamjsf.com/jsf/data.nsf/75public/07CF737749FA9E5585256F3900720288?OpenDocument JSF Global Partners.] Retrieved: 30 March 2007.] under the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding that brought the UK into the project."US, UK sign JAST agreement." "Aerospace Daily" New York: McGraw-Hill, 25 November 1995, p. 451.] Level 2 partners are Italy, which is contributing US$1 billion; and the Netherlands, US$800 million. Level 3 partners are Canada, US$440 million; Turkey, US$175 million; Australia, US$144 million; Norway, US$122 million and Denmark, US$110 million. Israel and Singapore have joined as Security Cooperative Participants (SCP). [Schnasi, Katherine V. [http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d04554.pdf "Joint Strike Fighter Acquisition: Observations on the Supplier Base."] "US Accounts Office". Retrieved: 8 February 2006.]

Some of the partner countries have wavered in their public commitment to the JSF program, hinting or warning that unless they receive more subcontracts or technology transfer, they will forsake JSF for the Eurofighter Typhoon, Saab Gripen, Dassault Rafale or simply upgrade their existing aircraft. Norway has several times threatened to put their support on hold unless substantial guarantees for an increased industrial share is provided. Despite this Norway has signed all the Memoranda of Understanding, including the latest one detailing the future production phase of the JSF program. They have, however, indicated that they will increase and strengthen their cooperation with both competitors of the JSF, the Typhoon and the Gripen. ["Defense Industry Daily". [http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/02/f35-lightning-ii-faces-continued-dogfights-in-norway/index.php F-35 Lightning II Faces Continued Dogfights in Norway] ]

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom plans to acquire 138 F-35Bs [ [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/6219122.stm "MPs warn over US fighter jet deal."] BBC. Retrieved: 10 January 2008.] for the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy. [ [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35b.htm F-35B Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)] www.globalsecurity.org]

The UK became increasingly frustrated by a lack of U.S. commitment to grant access to the technology that would allow the UK to maintain and upgrade its F-35s without US involvement. This is understood to relate mainly to the software for the aircraft. For five years, British officials sought an ITAR waiver to secure greater technology transfer. This request, which has the blessing of the Bush administration, was repeatedly blocked by U.S. Representative Henry Hyde, who said that the UK needed to tighten its laws protecting against the unauthorized transfer of the most advanced U.S. technology to third parties. [ [http://www.ft.com/cms/s/881df2c4-5b7f-11da-b221-0000779e2340.html "UK denied waiver on US arms technology."] "Financial Times". Retrieved: 11 October 2006.]

BAE Systems CEO Mike Turner complained that the US had denied his company access to the aircraft's source code. On 21 December 2005, an article in the "Glasgow Herald" quoted the chairman of the House of Commons Defence Select Committee as saying "the UK might have to consider whether to continue in the programme" if no access were granted. ["UK Defence Committee Statement." "UK Parliament". [http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/defence_committee/def051220___no__13.cfm MoD 'slippage' set to leave forces with reduced capability, says committee] . Retrieved: 8 February 2006.] Lord Drayson, Minister for Defence Procurement, took a firmer stance during a March 2006 visit to Washington: "We do expect the software technology transfer to take place. But if it does not take place we will not be able to purchase these aircraft," and he said there was a 'Plan B' if the deal fell through. [Chapman, Matt. [http://www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2152035/joint-strike-fighter "Britain warns US over jet software codes."] "vunet.com". Retrieved: 16 March 2006.] This may have been the development of a navalized Typhoon. [ [http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmselect/cmdfence/uc824-iii/uc82402.htm Evidence to UK Defence Select Committee] . Retrieved: 1 April 2006.]

On 27 May 2006, President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Tony Blair announced that "Both governments agree that the UK will have the ability to successfully operate, upgrade, employ, and maintain the Joint Strike Fighter such that the UK retains operational sovereignty over the aircraft." [ [http://news.ft.com/cms/s/7de7925a-ecf3-11da-a307-0000779e2340.html "Bush gives way over stealth fighter."] "Financial Times". Retrieved: 27 May 2006.] Despite this, concerns were still expressed about the lack of technology transfer as late as December 2006. Nevertheless, on 12 December 2006, Lord Drayson signed an agreement which met the UK's demands for further participation, i.e., access to software source code and operational sovereignty. The agreement allows "an unbroken British chain of command" for operation of the aircraft. Drayson said Britain would "not be required to have a US citizen in our own operational chain of command". [ [http://www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSL1278309720061212 "Update 2 — UK signs memo with US on Joint Strike Fighter."] "Reuters", 12 December 2006. Retrieved: 13 December 2006.] Drayson also said, however, that Britain is still considering an unspecified "Plan B" alternative to buying the Joint Strike Fighter.

On 25 July 2007, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that they have placed orders for the two new aircraft carriers of the Queen Elizabeth Class that will allow the purchase of the F-35B variant. [BBC News Online. [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/6914788.stm "MoD confirms £3.8bn carrier order."] "news.bbc.co.uk".] On May 2, 2008, however, the "Washington Post" reported that an Inspector General's report chided the U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Security Service for failing to ensure that BAE Systems was exercising appropriate controls over access to sensitive technologies, while both BAE and Lockheed Martin denied that any technology had been compromised. [ [http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103227.html "Security of F-35 Jet Secrets Questioned"] , "Washington Post", May 2, 2008.]

Italy

Italy plans to acquire a total of 131 F-35s where 74 are F-35As and 57 are F-35Bs. [ [http://www.dedalonews.it/it/index.php/09/2008/lockheed-martin-e-alenia-firmano-il-primo-contratto-di-produzione-per-lf-35/ "Lockheed Martin e Alenia firmano il primo contratto di produzione per l'F-35"] , DEDALONEWS, 25 September 2008. [http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dedalonews.it%2Fit%2Findex.php%2F09%2F2008%2Flockheed-martin-e-alenia-firmano-il-primo-contratto-di-produzione-per-lf-35%2F&sl=it&tl=en&hl=en&ie=UTF-8 (english translation)] .] On 7 October 2008 Italy announced it will not participate in initial F-35 testing & evaluation and will not purchase test aircraft . [ [http://www.defense-aerospace.com/cgi-bin/client/modele.pl?session=dae.42056974.1223616575.b1W7xn8AAAEAADC9Dx8AAAAW&prod=98615&modele=release Italy opting out of the F-35 test program] ]

Netherlands

The Netherlands has plans to acquire 85 F-35As and options on another 15 F-35A for the Royal Netherlands Air Force. The aircraft will replace an aging fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16AM. The Dutch government expects the costs to be €5.5 billion for the initial purchase and €9.1 billion for 30 years of service. [ [http://www.rekenkamer.nl/9282000/d/p396_rapport.pdf "Stand van zaken september 2006, Monitoring verwerving Joint Strike Fighter"] Dead link|date=July 2008, "Algemene Rekenkamer", October 2006, p. 22.] On 19 November 2007, in the Dutch Parliament, the Secretary of Defence was questioned about the JSF delay, technical problems and rising costs. [ [http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/f-35-jsf-hit-by-serious-design-problems-04311/ F-35 JSF Hit by Serious Design Problems] ] However, on 29 February 2008, the executive council of the Dutch government decided to go ahead with the purchase of two test aircraft and a MOU was signed. [ [http://www.nu.nl/news/1457749/11/JSF_pakt_duurder_uit_dan_gepland.html JSF is more expensive than expected] ] September 7 2008 Dutch television show "reporter" reports that counter orders are lagging behind compared to promises and that an active lobby by the Netherlands Air force has manipulated Dutch government into participating in the project. [ [http://reporter.kro.nl/uitzendingen/_2008/0907-JSF/intro.aspx Kamer misleid over JSF orders] .]

Canada

Canada has been involved in the Joint Strike Fighter Program from the very beginning, investing $10 million dollars US to be an "informed partner" during the evaluation process. Once Lockheed Martin was selected as the primary contractor for the JSF program, Canada then elected to become a level 3 participant along with Norway, Denmark, Turkey, and Australia on the JSF project, paying US$100 million from the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) to be paid over 10 years and an additional $50 million dollars from Industry Canada, in 2002 as a early participant of the JSF program.Williams, Alan S. "Reinventing Canadian Defence Procurement: A View From the Inside". Kingston, Ontario, Canada: Breakout Education Network, Queen's University, 2006. ISBN 0-9781693-0-1.]

Canada's rationale for joining the JSF project was not due to an urgent need to replace Canada's fleet of CF-18 Hornets; instead it was driven primarily by economics. Through Canadian government investment in the JSF project, Canadian companies were allowed to compete for contracts within the JSF project, as there were fears that being shut out from industrial participation in such a large program could severely damage the Canadian aviation industry. Joining also allowed Canada access to information regarding the F-35 as a possible contender when Canada eventually does plan to replace the CF-18 Hornet fleet. Improved interoperability with major allies, allowed the DND to gain insight on leading edge practices in composites, manufacturing and logistics, and the ability to recoup some investment if the government did decide to purchase the F-35.

As a result of Canadian government investment in the JSF project, 144 contracts were awarded to Canadian companies, universities and government facilities, for a combined contract value of US$490 million for the period 2002 to 2012, with an expected value of US$1.1 billion from current contracts in the period between 2013 and 2023, with a total potential estimated value of Canadian JSF involvement from US$4.8 billion to US$6.8 billion.

Turkey

On 12 July 2002, Turkey became the seventh international partner in the JSF Project, joining the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, Denmark and Norway. On 25 January 2007, Turkey signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for involvement in F-35 production. [ [http://www.electronicaviation.com/news/Military/1060 Electronic Aviation: Despite JSF Pact, Turkey Doesn’t Rule Out Eurofighter Buy. January 31, 2007.] ] The Turkish Air Force is planning to initially order 116 [ [http://www.ntvmsnbc.com/news/389854.asp NTV-MSNBC: F-35 uçakları. October 31, 2006.] ] [ [http://gbulten.ssm.gov.tr/arsiv/2006/12/24/01.htm Hürriyet: İlk F-35'te dört Türk parçası uçtu. December 24, 2006.] ] F-35A "CTOL/Air Force versions" at a reported cost of $11 billion. [ [http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/01/turkey-signs-f35-production-mou/index.php Turkey Signs F-35 Production MoU] ] It is reported that the aircraft will be produced under license in Turkey by the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

A Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed between TAI and Northrop Grumman ISS (NGISS) International on 6 February 2007. With the LOI, TAI becomes the second source for the F-35 Lightning II center fuselage during the JSF Signing. The number of center fuselages to be produced by Turkish Aerospace Industries will be determined depending on the number of F-35s Turkey will procure and the number of F-35s to be produced worldwide. The LOI represents a potential value in excess of $3 billion. [ [http://www.tai.com.tr/en_haber_guncel.aspx?id=84 Turkish Aerospace Industries] ] Northrop Grumman currently produces all F-35 center fuselages at its F-35 assembly facility in Palmdale, California.

TAI of Turkey is one of the two international suppliers to Northrop Grumman (the other being Denmark). On 10 December 2007, the Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. (TAI) was authorized by the Northrop Grumman to commence fabricating subassemblies for the first two F-35 production aircraft. The subassemblies – composite components and aircraft access doors – will be used in the F-35 center fuselage, a major section of the aircraft being produced by Northrop Grumman, a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 global industry team. [ [http://live.defenseworld.net:9080/go/defensenews.jsp?catid=1&id=2116 Defense World] ]

It is also anticipated that TAI after 2013 will also produce 100% of the F-35 under license from Lockheed Martin Corporation, as was also the case with the F-16 Fighting Falcon program Peace Onyx I and II. Turkey also intends to incorporate in the distant future several Turkish designed and manufactured electronic systems into the F-35 platform.

Australia

In May 2005, the Australian government announced that it would delay its planned 2006 decision on buying the JSF to 2008, and thus past the term of the government of the day. Australia, like the UK, has insisted it must have access to all software needed to modify and repair aircraft. Analysis conducted by the Royal Australian Air Force has determined that the F-35 "is the most suitable aircraft for Australia's needs". [Nelson, Brendan, The Hon. Dr. [http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=6341 "Joint Strike Fighter." Press release.] "Minister for Defence", 1 February 2007. Retrieved: 1 February 2007.]

There has been debate in Australia over whether the F-35 is the most suitable aircraft for the RAAF. Some media reports, lobby groups and politicians have raised doubts that the aircraft will be ready in time to replace the RAAF's aging fleet of General Dynamics F-111 strike aircraft and McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet fighters. Some critics say the more expensive F-22 Raptor or the Eurofighter Typhoon may be better choices, both offering better range, dogfighting capability, and supercruise at a cost that may not be much more than the F-35 [ [http://www.ausairpower.net/ Air Power Australia web site] Related discussions and analyses, although the F-22 is not for sale internationally.] – claims that as of July 2006 are being examined in a parliamentary inquiry. [ [http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/jfadt/adfair/subs.htm Inquiry into Australian Defence Force Regional Air Superiority] , Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade, Australian Parliament]

In a statement released in early August 2006, then-Australian Defence Minister Dr. Brendan Nelson revealed that while the F-35 still had governmental support, Australia is starting to investigate other possible aircraft should the F-35 prove to be unfeasible. [ [http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/US-decisions-threaten-fighter-project/2006/08/04/1154198330441.html "US decisions 'threaten' fighter project."] "The Age", 4 August 2006. Retrieved: 19 August 2006.] In October 2006, the deputy chief of the Air Force, Air Vice Marshal John Blackburn, publicly stated that the RAAF had ruled out the purchase of interim strike aircraft to cover any delays to the F-35 program and believed that the F-35 was suitable. [Blenkin, Max. [http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20556293-31037,00.html "RAAF 'won't need' interim jet."] , "News.com.au". Retrieved: 10 October 2006.] However, on 6 March 2007, Dr. Nelson announced the Australian Government would purchase 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets from Boeing to fill the gap left by the retiring F-111 strike aircraft at a cost of potentially AU$6 billion. [ [http://www.thanhniennews.com/worlds/?catid=9&newsid=25777 "Australia to buy 24 F-18 Super Hornets from Boeing."] "Thanhnien News", 6 March 2007. Retrieved: 6 March 2007.] Nonetheless, Dr. Nelson continued to endorse Australia's purchase of the F-35. Speaking on Australian television in March 2007, Dr. Nelson stated that 5% of the capability of the F-35 is classified, claiming that, "that's the five percent that really counts." [cite web |author= Bartlett, Liam |url=http://sixtyminutes.ninemsn.com.au/sixtyminutes/stories/2007_03_18/story_1879.asp |title= Transcript of '60 Minutes' broadcast 'Project Joint Strike Fighter'|date= 18 March 2006 |accessdate= 2007-03-18 |publisher= Ninemsn |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20070322210522/http://sixtyminutes.ninemsn.com.au/sixtyminutes/stories/2007_03_18/story_1879.asp |archivedate=2007-03-22]

On 13 December 2006, Minister Nelson signed the JSF Production, Sustainment and Follow-on Development Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement provides the cooperative framework for the acquisition and support of the JSF over its life. [ [http://www.theage.com.au/news/WORLD/Australia-commits-to-F35-strike-fighter/2006/12/13/1165685710399.html "Australia commits to F-35 strike fighter."] "The Age", 13 December 2006.] Australia is expected to purchase 100 F-35As at a cost of approximately AU$16 billion. [Elliot, Geoff. [http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20943857-31477,00.html "Troubled stealth fighter tackles first test flight."] Dead link|date=August 2008"The Australian", 18 December 2006.]

However following the election of a Labor Party government in the 2007 federal election the new government ordered a review of the RAAF's fighter procurement plans, including the purchase of the F-35. This review will include an evaluation of the F-35, advanced derivatives of the MiG-29 and Su-35, as well as the F-22's suitability for Australia, with the Defence Minister stating that "I intend to pursue American politicians for access to the Raptor". [Govindasamy, Siva. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/01/10/220724/australia-to-weigh-lockheed-martin-f-22-against-russian-fighters.html "Australia to weigh Lockheed Martin F-22 against Russian fighters."] "Reed Business Information", Flightglobal.com, 10 January 2008. Retrieved: 2 February 2008.]

In March 2008 the Royal Australian Navy was reported to have requested that the government purchase a third "Canberra Class" ship to utilize for fixed wing carrier operations and F-35B STOVL aircraft. The government was reported to be unlikely to approve this request, however. [cite news |first=Ian |last=McPhedran |authorlink= |coauthors= |title=Royal Australian Navy's wish list of $4b |url=http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,23426308-662,00.html |work= |publisher=Herald Sun |date=2008-03-25 |accessdate=2008-03-26 ]

Norway

Norway participates in the F-35 program as a Level 3 partner in the System Development and Demonstration phase with a view to enabling its industry to compete for industrial opportunities. [ [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/europe/norway/index.html Norway] ] Norwegian National Deputy Rune Fagerli, the country's sole representative on the Joint Strike Fighter program, told SPACE.com the Norwegian Royal Ministry of Defence has pledged $125 million in preparations to replace a fleet of F-16 jets that have about 12 years left of operation. "By getting involved here, on the ground level, we can try and address the needs of Norway into this capable fighter early," said Fagerli, a colonel. In Norway, F-16s are fitted with drag chutes because of wet, slippery runways. International cooperation to aircraft development could also yield aircraft from cooperating nations that fit well together during combat. Fagerli also mentioned that Norwegian pilots currently fly missions over Afghanistan in F-16s alongside Danish and Dutch aviators. [ [http://www.space.com/businesstechnology/technology/jsf_fighter_020312.html Joint Strike Fighter: A Jet for Every Occasion] , space.com, 12 February 2003.]

The F-35 is one of the aircraft types being evaluated by the Norwegian Future Combat Aircraft Capability Project as a replacement for the F-16s currently in-service. [ [http://www.regjeringen.no/nb/dep/fd/pressesenter/pressemeldinger/2006/The-Government-moves-the-combat-aircraft-acquisition-into-the-next-stage-Maintains-three-candidates.html?id=440094 "The Government moves the combat aircraft acquisition into the next stage – Maintains three candidates"] , Norway Ministry of Defence, 15 December 2006.]

Denmark

Denmark has joined the Joint Strike Fighter program as a Level 3 partner and the Danish Air Force is considering the replacement of 48 of its aging F-16 fighters with next generation aircraft.

ecurity Cooperative Participants (SCP)

Israel

In 2003, Israel signed a letter of agreement, worth almost $20 million, to formally join the system development and demonstration (SDD) effort for the F-35 as a "security cooperation participant" (SCP). [ [http://www.f-16.net/news_article5.html "Israel inks LOA to join Joint Strike Fighter program"] .] The Israeli Air Force (IAF) stated in 2006 that the F-35 is a key part of IAF's recapitalization plans, and that Israel intends to buy over 100 F-35A fighters at an estimated cost of over $5 billion to replace their F-16s over time. [ [http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/06/israel-plans-to-buy-over-100-f35s/index.php "Israel Plans to Buy Over 100 F-35s."] "DefenseIndustryDaily.com", 27 June 2006.] Israel was reinstated as a partner in the development of the F-35 on 31 July 2006, after Israeli participation was put on hold following the Chinese arms deal crisis. [ [http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1148287839455&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull "Israel, US battling over sale of jets"] , "Jerusalem Post".]

On 3 September 2007, IDF Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi announced the purchase of a squadron of F-35s which Israel will begin receiving in 2014. However, U.S. defense officials later agreed to allow Israel to receive the fighters as early as 2012. [ [http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1192380645400&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull US to speed up stealth fighter delivery to Israel] , Jerusalem Post.] The price of each F-35 is expected to reach $70-80 million. [ [http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull&cid=1211434083027 "Israel submits request to buy F-35 jets"] , "Jerusalem Post".]

The Jerusalem Post reports the Pentagon has agreed to supply the F-35A variant to Israel as early as 2012, instead of in 2014 or 2015. This would make Israel one of the first nations to receive the aircraft, and very possibly the first foreign nation. Previous objections to Israel’s installation of its own technology in the F-35 — as it has done with every US fighter it has received — were also reportedly overcome. At present, the only Israel technology in the standard version will be the JSF HMDS helmet mounted display system, designed in cooperation with Elbit Systems. Israel also asked to manufacture F-35 aircraft locally at a 1:2 ratio, but the reports did not indicate whether that request was granted. [http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull&cid=1198517198806 "IAF interested in new US-made jet"] , "Jerusalem Post".] On 30 September 2008, the US DoD reported that Israel has requested to purchase 25 F-35As with options to buy up to 50 F-35As or F-35Bs. [France-Presse, Agence. [http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=3750642&c=MID&s=AIR "Israel Asks To Buy F-35s: Pentagon"] . Defense News, 30 September 2008.] [ [http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Israel_08-83.pdf "Israel - F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft"] . US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, 29 September 2008.]

ingapore

In February 2003, Singapore joined the JSF program's System Design and Development (SDD) Phase, as a Security Co-operation Participant (SCP). [cite web| url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2003/feb/22feb03_nr2.html |title =Singapore Signs Letter of Intent for Joint Strike Fighter Programme |publisher =MINDEF ]

Potential exports

The F-35 is also a potential offer to the Indian Air Force as of July 2007. This has been interpreted as part of a tactic to sell the F-16 as a multi-role fighter to the IAF, as part of its competition to acquire 126 new fighters. [ [http://www.ibnlive.com/news/us-wants-indias-fighter-jet-order-dangles-f35-carrot/45214-3.html?from=search "US wants India's fighter jet order, dangles F-35 carrot"] , IBN Live, 19 July, 2007.] Lockheed Martin formally expressed its interest to sell F-35 to India. [ [http://www.rediff.com/news/2007/jul/22f35.htm News] ]

The Brazilian Air Force recently has added the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to the list of aircraft under consideration for its relaunched new fighter procurement, called F-X2. The F-35 replaces the F-16, which was in contention for the previous F-X BR program, shelved in 2003 and finally abandoned in 2006. [ [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3A27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3A2380d347-7739-4057-88c3-74a6ec2870e8 Brazil Adds F-35 to New Fighter Contenders] , Aviation Week] [ [http://www.fab.mil.br/portal/capa/index.php?mostra=499 FAB - NOTA À IMPRENSA - FX-2 (in Portuguese)] , [http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fab.mil.br%2Fportal%2Fcapa%2Findex.php%3Fmostra%3D499&sl=pt&tl=en&hl=en&ie=UTF-8 english translation] ]

Design

The F-35 appears to be a smaller, slightly more conventional, one-engine sibling of the sleeker, two-engine F-22 Raptor, and indeed drew elements from it. The exhaust duct design was inspired by the General Dynamics Model 200, a 1972 VTOL aircraft designed for the Sea Control Ship. ["Vertiflight." "Journal of the American Helicopter Society" January 2004.] Verify source|date=May 2008 Lockheed teamed with the Yakovlev Design Bureau, developer of the Yakovlev Yak-141 "Freestyle", in the 1990s. [Hayles, John. [http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/types/russia/yakovlev/yak-41/yak-41.htm "Yakovlev Yak-41 'Freestyle'".] "Aeroflight", 28 March 2005. Retrieved on 3 July 2008.] [ [http://www.janes.com/defence/air_forces/news/jawa/jawa010103_1_n.shtml Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)] , Jane's. Retrieved on 3 July 2008.] Stealth technology makes the aircraft difficult to detect as it approaches short-range tracking radar.

Some improvements over current-generation fighter aircraft are:
* Durable, low-maintenance stealth technology;
* Integrated avionics and sensor fusion that combine information from off- and onboard sensors to increase the pilot's situational awareness and improve identification and weapon delivery, and to relay information quickly to other command and control (C2) nodes;
* High speed data networking including IEEE-1394bPhilips, E. H. "The Electric Jet." "Aviation Week & Space Technology", 5 February 2007.] and Fibre Channel.Parker, Ian. [http://www.aviationtoday.com/av/categories/military/11667.html "Reducing Risk on the Joint Strike Fighter."] "Avionics Magazine". Retrieved: 8 July 2007.]
* Low life-cycle costs.Fact|date=June 2007

Cockpit

The F-35 features a full-panel-width "panoramic cockpit display (PCD)", with dimensions of 20 by 8 inches (50 by 20 centimeters). [ [http://www.vectorsite.net/avf35.html The Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)] , vectorsite.net] A cockpit speech-recognition system (Direct Voice Input) is planned to improve the pilot's ability to operate the aircraft over the current-generation. The F-35 will be the first U.S. operational fixed-wing aircraft to use this system, although similar systems have been used in AV-8B and trialled in previous U.S. jets, particularly the F-16 VISTA. [http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123071861 "Researchers fine-tune F-35 pilot-aircraft speech system.] US Air Force, 10 October 2007.] In development the system has been integrated by Adacel Systems Inc with the speech recognition module supplied by SRI International. [ [http://www.technologynewsdaily.com/node/8242 Technology News] ]

A helmet mounted display system (HMDS) will be fitted to all models of the F-35. While some fourth-generation fighters (such as the Swedish JAS 39 Gripen) have offered HMDS along with a head up display (HUD), this will be the first time in several decades that a front-line tactical jet fighter has been designed to not carry a HUD. [http://www.rockwellcollins.com/news/page8813.html "VSI's Helmet Mounted Display System flies on Joint Strike Fighter."] Rockwell Collins, 2007. Retrieved: 8 June 2008.]

The pilot flies the aircraft by means of a right-hand side-stick and left-hand throttle, both of which are supplied by BAE Systems. [ [http://www.militarypower.com.br/english-frame4-f35.htm F-35 JSF Joint Strike Fighter, USA] , militarypower.com.br]

ensors

The main sensor on board the F-35 is its AN/APG-81 AESA-radar, designed by Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems. [ [http://www.es.northropgrumman.com/ASD/combat/APG-81.html APG-81 (F-35 Lightning II)] Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems. Retrieved: 4 August 2007.] It is augmented by the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) mounted under the nose of the aircraft, designed by Lockheed Martin and BAE. [ [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/products/JointStrikeFighterElectroOpticalTar/ Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control: Joint Strike Fighter Electro-Optical Targeting System.] Retrieved: 11 April 2008.] Further electro-optical sensors are distributed over the aircraft as part of the AN/AAS-37 system which acts as missile warning system and can aid in navigation and night operations.

Engines

Two different jet engines are being developed for the F-35; the Pratt & Whitney F135 and the General Electric/Rolls-Royce F136. The STOVL versions of both powerplants use the innovative LiftSystem, patented by Lockheed Martin and built by Rolls-Royce. This system is more like the Russian Yak-141 and German VJ 101D/E [ [http://www.vstol.org/GermanVSTOLFighters.pdf Swivel nozzle VJ101D and VJ101E] ] than the preceding generation of STOVL designs, such as the Harrier Jump Jet.

The LiftSystem is composed of a lift fan, driveshaft, clutch, 2 roll posts and a "3 Bearing Swivel Module" (3BSM). [ [http://defence.rolls-royce.com/Rolls-Royce-LIftSystem/ Rolls-Royce LiftSystem] . LiftSystem Description.] The 3BSM is a thrust vectoring nozzle which allows the main engine exhaust to be deflected downward at the tail of the aircraft. The lift fan near the front of the aircraft provides a counter-balancing thrust. Somewhat like a vertically mounted turboprop within the forward fuselage, the lift fan is powered by the engine's low-pressure (LP) turbine via a driveshaft and gearbox. Roll control during slow flight is achieved by diverting pressurized air from the LP turbine through wing mounted thrust nozzles called Roll Posts. [ [http://www.ingenia.org.uk/ingenia/issues/issue20/hutchinson.pdf Going vertical. Developing a STOVL system.] ]

The F-35B lift fan achieves the same 'flow multiplier' effect as the Harrier's huge, but supersonically impractical, main fan. Like lift engines, this added machinery is just deadweight during horizontal flight but provides a net increase in payload capacity during vertical flight. The cool exhaust of the fan also reduces the amount of hot, high-velocity air that is projected downward during vertical takeoff (which can damage runways and aircraft carrier decks). Though complicated and potentially risky, the lift system has been made to work to the satisfaction of DOD officials.

Armament

[
mock-up of the F-35.]

The F-35 includes a GAU-22/A four-barrel 25 mm cannon. [ [http://www.gdatp.com/products/Gun_Systems/JSF/JSF.htm F-35 gun system] , General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products.] The Cannon will be mounted internally with 180 rounds in the F-35A and fitted as an external pod with 220 rounds in the F-35B and F-35C. [ [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-specs.htm F-35 specifications] , GlobalSecurity.org]

Internally (current planned weapons for integration), up to two air-to-air missiles and two air-to-ground weapons (up to two 2,000 lb bombs in A and C models; two 1,000 lb bombs in the B model) in the bomb bays. [http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/AFA%20Conf%20-%20JSF%20Program%20Brief%20-%2026%20Sept%2006.pdf F-35 Program Brief] , USAF, 26 September 2006.] These could be AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-132 ASRAAM, the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) — up to 2,000 lb (910 kg), the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) — a maximum of four in each bay, the Brimstone anti-armor missiles, Cluster Munitions (WCMD) and High Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARM). The MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile is currently being adapted to fit internally in the missile spots and may be integrated into the F-35. The UK had originally planned to put up to four AIM-132 ASRAAM internally but this has been changed to carry 2 internal and 2 external ASRAAMs. [ [http://www.f-16.net/news_article2762.html "F-35 Lightning II News: ASRAAM Config Change For F-35"] , f-16.net, 4 March 2008.]

At the expense of being more detectable by radar, many more missiles, bombs and fuel tanks can be attached on four wing pylons and two wingtip positions. The two wingtip pylons can only carry AIM-9X Sidewinders, while the AIM-120 AMRAAM, Storm Shadow, Joint Air to Surface Stand-off Missile (JASSM) cruise missiles and 480 gallon fuel tanks can be carried in addition to the stores already integrated. An air-to-air load of eight AIM-120s and two AIM-9s is conceivable using internal and external weapons stations, as well as a configuration of six two thousand pound bombs, two AIM-120s and two AIM-9s. [http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2007targets/Day1/Davisday1.pdf JSF & Airspace Requirements] ] With its payload capability, the F-35 can carry more air to air and air to ground weapons than legacy fighters it is to replace as well as the F-22 Raptor. [ [http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=MzM3M2U5NDBjYjE0ODI1ZjFlYjYzZjFlZWZjZjhiMmI= National Review] ]

Concerns over performance

Some public figures such as Dr Jensen in Australia, and American combat aircraft expert Pierre Sprey, have expressed concern over the aircraft's combat capabilities with specific regard to radar visibility, weight to power ratio, turn rate, [ [http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/22/2371412.htm?section=australia] ] and flammability. [http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/151m-planes-a-disaster/2008/09/13/1220857899066.html] The concerns about the F-35's performance have resulted in part from reports of simulations undertaken as part of the development program showing Russian Sukhoi fighters comprehensively defeating the JSF. [ [http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/22/2371412.htm?section=australia] ]

Dr. Jensen when first raising this simulation result also suggested it is inferior to current and superseded aircraft already in service around the world. [ [http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/22/2371412.htm?section=australia] ] It has been argued that the F-22 is a superior air combat aircraft and that Australia would be better off pursuing this aircraft in light of the concerns over the performance of the F-35. [http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24328813-2702,00.html] As a result of these issues the Australian defence minister, Mr. Fitzgibbon, has ordered a formal briefing from the ADF in relation to the computer simulation. [ [http://www.defense-aerospace.com/cgi-bin/client/modele.pl?prod=97851&session=dae.41618797.1221478022.g6Hi638AAAEAAEVsxN8AAAAj&modele=release] ]

The F-35 has also come under criticism in the USA regarding its performance most of which has been dismissed by the Pentagon and manufacturer. [ [http://www.star-telegram.com/metro_news/story/916882.html] ] [ [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/0919ae_f-35settingrecordstraight.html ]

The USAF has conducted an analysis of the F-35's air-to-air performance against all 4th generation fighter aircraft currently available in the international market, and has found the F-35 to be at least 400% more effective. Maj. Gen. Charles R. Davis, the F-35 program executive officer has stated that the F-35, "enjoys a significant Combat Loss Exchange Ratio advantage over the current and future air-to-air threats, to include Sukhois," which are currently the most advanced fighter aircraft being flown by the Russian, Indian, and Chinese Air Forces. [ [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/0919ae_f-35settingrecordstraight.html ]

Manufacturing responsibilities

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics is the prime contractor and performs aircraft final assembly, overall system integration, mission system, and provides forward fuselage, wings and flight controls system. Northrop Grumman provides Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, center fuselage, weapons bay, and arrestor gear. BAE Systems provides aft fuselage and empennages, horizontal and vertical tails, crew life support and escape systems, Electronic warfare systems, fuel system, and Flight Control Software (FCS1). Alenia will perform final assembly for Italy and, according to an Alenia executive, assembly of all European aircraft with the exception of the UK's. [ [http://www.aviationnow.com/avnow/search/autosuggest.jsp?docid=7783&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aviationnow.com%2Favnow%2Fnews%2Fchannel_defense_story.jsp%3Fview%3Dstory%26id%3Dnews%2FJSFM06196.xml Italy Wins JSF Final Assembly; U.K. Presses Maintenance, Support] ]

Operational history

Testing

On 19 February 2006, the first F-35A (USAF version) was rolled out in Fort Worth, Texas. The aircraft underwent extensive ground testing at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base in fall 2006. On 15 September 2006 the first engine run of the F135 afterburning turbofan was conducted in an airframe, with the tests completed on 18 September after a static run with full afterburner. The engine runs were the first time that the F-35 was completely functional on its own power systems. [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=17899&rsbci=11173&fti=134&ti=0&sc=400 "Mighty F-35 Lightning 2 Engine Roars To Life."] Dead link|date=July 2008"Lockheed Martin" (news release), 22 September 2006.] On 15 December 2006, the F-35A completed its maiden flight.

On 3 May 2007, an electrical problem consisting of electrical arcing inside a hydraulic control box forced the aircraft to make an emergency landing. [http://www.defensetech.org/archives/003895.html Defense Tech] ] It was grounded until 7 December, when test pilot Jon Beesley flew a 55-minute test flight.

A unique feature of the test program is the use of the so-called Lockheed CATBird avionic testbed, a highly modified Boeing 737-330, inside of which are racks holding all of F-35's avionics, as well as a complete F-35 cockpit. [http://www.niid.nl/file.aspx?i=847 "Flying Test-Bed Power Switched On"] , F-35 JSF Flight Plan. Retrieved: 20 November 2006.]

On 31 January 2008 at Fort Worth, Texas, Lt Col James "Flipper" Kromberg of the U.S. Air Force became the first military service pilot to evaluate the F-35, taking the aircraft through a series of maneuvers on its 26th flight.

On 12 March 2008, the first F-35A (AA-1) began aerial refueling testing on its 34th test flight. [Lockheed Martin. [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/0313ae_f-35refuel.html Lockheed Martin F-35 Succeeds in First Aerial Refueling Test] . 13 March 2008.]

On 11 June 2008, after extensive ground testing, the first F-35B (STOVL version, designated BF-01) made its maiden flight at Fort Worth. The flight, which featured a conventional takeoff, was piloted by BAE Systems' test pilot Graham Tomlinson. [ [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/061108ae_f35B_firstflight.html "F-35B Stovl Stealth Fighter Achieves Successful First Flight"] . Lockheed Martin, 11 June 2008.]

Variants

The F-35 is planned to be built in three different versions to suit the needs of its various users. Orders for many aircraft are expected with the United States Air Force planning to acquire 1,765. ["Air Forces Monthly", October 2007 edition.]

F-35A

The F-35A is the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant intended for the US Air Force and other air forces. It is the smallest, lightest F-35 version and is the only variant equipped with an internal cannon, the GAU-22/A. This 25 mm cannon, a development of the 20 mm M61 Vulcan is designed for increased effectiveness against ground targets. The GAU-22 is a version of the GAU-12 carried by the USMC's AV-8B Harrier II.

The F-35A is expected to match the F-16 in maneuverability, instantaneous and sustained high-g performance, and outperform it in stealth, payload, range on internal fuel, avionics, operational effectiveness, supportability and survivability. [ [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35a.htm F-35A Joint Strike Fighter] ] It also has an internal laser designator and infrared sensors.

The A variant is primarily intended to replace the USAF's F-16 Fighting Falcons, beginning in 2013, and replace the A-10 Thunderbolt II starting in 2028.

F-35B

The F-35B is the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the aircraft. Similar in size to the A variant, the B sacrifices some fuel volume for a vertical flight system. Vertical flight is by far the riskiest, and in the end, a decisive factor in design. Like the AV-8B Harrier II, the B's guns will be carried in a ventral pod.

The F-35B was in danger of missing performance requirements in 2004 because it weighed too much — reportedly, by 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg) or 8 percent. In response, Lockheed Martin added engine thrust and shed more than a ton by thinning the aircraft's skin; shrinking the weapons bay and vertical tails; rerouting some thrust from the roll-post outlets to the main nozzle; and redesigning the wing-mate joint, portions of the electrical system, and the portion of the aircraft immediately behind the cockpit. [Fulghum, David A. and Wall, Robert. [http://www.aviationnow.com/avnow/news/channel_awst_story.jsp?id=news/09204wna.xml "USAF Plans for Fighters Change."] "Aviation Week and Space Technology", 19 September 2004] Retrieved: 8 February 2006.]

The RAF and Royal Navy plan to use this variant to replace their Harrier GR7/GR9s. The U.S. Marine Corps intends to purchase 340 F-35Bs [cite web | last = | first = | title = Fourth F-35 Lightning II Rolls Out as Production Line Fills Up at Lockheed Martin | work = | publisher = www.foxbusiness.com | date = 2008-08-18 | url = http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/industrials/fourth-f--lightning-ii-rolls-production-line-fills-lockheed-martin/ | accessdate = 2008-08-20] to replace all current inventories of the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier II and EA-6B Prowler [cite web | last = Trimble | first = Stephen | title =US Marine Corps aviation branch plans to invest in fighter jets, helicopters, transports and UAVs | work = | publisher = www.flightglobal.com | date = | url = http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/07/21/225796/us-marine-corps-aviation-branch-plans-to-invest-in-fighter-jets-helicopters-transports-and-uavs.html | accessdate = 2008-07-21] in the fighter, attack, and electronic warfare [cite news|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/AEA060408.xml|title=Electronic Attack Plan Nears Approval|last=Fulghum|first=David A. |date=June 4, 2008 |work=Aerospace Daily & Defense Report |publisher=aviationweek.com|language=English|accessdate=2008-08-08] roles.

The F-35B was unveiled at Lockheed's Fort Worth plant on 18 December 2007, [ [http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/LATU14218122007-1.htm "First Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Stealth Fighter Unveiled at Lockheed Martin."] "Marine Corps News", 18 December 2007. Retrieved: 18 December 2007.] and the first test flight was on 11 June 2008. [http://www.star-telegram.com/business/story/694234.html] Dead link|date=August 2008 The B variant is expected to be available beginning in 2012.

F-35C

The F-35C carrier variant will have a larger, folding wing and larger control surfaces for improved low-speed control, and stronger landing gear for the stresses of carrier landings. The larger wing area allows for decreased landing speed, increased range and payload, with twice the range on internal fuel compared with the F/A-18C Hornet, achieving much the same goal as the heavier F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

The US Navy will be the sole user for the carrier variant. It intends to buy 480 F-35Cs to replace the F/A-18A, -B, -C, and -D Hornets. The F-35C will also serve as a stealthier complement to the Super Hornet. [ [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35c.htm F-35C Carrier Variant] globalsecurity.org.] On 27 June 2007, the carrier variant completed its Air System Critical Design Review (CDR). This allows the first two functional prototype F-35C units to be produced. [ [http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/06-27-2007/0004616904&EDATE= "F-35 Navy Version Undergoes Successful Design Review, Readies for Production"] , Lockheed Martin, 27 June 2007.] The C variant is expected to be available beginning in 2015.Fact|date=October 2008

pecifications (F-35 Lightning II)

aircraft specifications
jet or prop?=jet
plane or copter?=plane
ref=F-35 Program brief, [http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/AFA%20Conf%20-%20JSF%20Program%20Brief%20-%2026%20Sept%2006.pdf F-35 Program brief (PDF)] ] F-35 JSF Statistics [http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/mediakits/7764.zip F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Media Kit Statistics (ZIP, 98.2 KB)] ]
crew=1
length main=50 ft 6 in
length alt=15.37 m
span main=35 ft 0 in
span alt=10.65 m
height main=17 ft 4 in
height alt=5.28 m
area main=459.6 ft²
area alt=42.7 m²
empty weight main= A: 29,036 lb, B: 32,161 lb, C: 32,070 lb
empty weight alt= A: 13,170 kg, B: 14,588 kg, C: 14547 kg
loaded weight main=44,400 lb
loaded weight alt=20,100 kg
max takeoff weight main=60,000 lb
max takeoff weight alt=27,200 kg
number of jets=1
engine (jet)=Pratt & Whitney F135
type of jet=afterburning turbofan
thrust main=25,000 lbf
thrust alt=111 kN
afterburning thrust main= 40,000+ lbf
afterburning thrust alt=178+ kN
more general=Secondary Powerplant: 1× General Electric/Rolls-Royce F136 afterburning turbofan, >40,000 lbf (178 kN) [in development]
* Lift fan (STOVL): 1× Rolls-Royce Lift System driven from either F135 or F136 power plant, 18,000 lbf (80 kN)
* Internal fuel: F-35A: 18,480 lb (8,382 kg); F-35B: 14,003 lb (6,352 kg); F-35C: 20,085 lb (9,110 kg)
max speed main= Mach 1.6+
max speed alt=1,200 mph, 1,931 km/h
cruise speed main=
cruise speed alt=
range main=A: 1,200 nmi; B: 900 nmi; C: 1,400 nmi
range alt=A: 2,200 km; B: 1,667 km; C: 2,593 km
range more=on internal fuel
combat radius main=600 nmi
combat radius alt=690 mi, 1,110 km
combat radius more=
ceiling main=
ceiling alt=
climb rate main=classified
climb rate alt=not publicly available
loading main=91.4 lb/ft²
loading alt=446 kg/m²
thrust/weight=
** With full fuel: A: 0.89; B: 0.92; C: 0.81
** With 50% fuel: A: 1.12; B: 1.10; C: 1.01
more performance="g"-Limits [ [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-specs.htm F-35 Lightning II specifications] , Globalsecurity.org]
*F-35A/B/C: 9 "g"
Armament=
guns= 1 × GAU-22/A 25 mm cannon — slated to be mounted internally with 180 rounds in the F-35A and fitted as an external pod with 220 rounds in the F-35B and F-35C.
bombs=
rockets=
missiles= Internal: 4 air-air missiles or 2 air-air missiles and 2 air-surface weapons; External: 6 air-air missiles or 4 air-ground weapons and 2 air-air missiles.
hardpoints= 6
hardpoint capacity=15,000 lb (6,800 kg)
avionics=

Popular culture

The first major film appearance of a representation of a F-35B was in "Live Free or Die Hard" (released as "Die Hard 4.0" or "Die Hard 4" outside North America) in 2007. The film used a combination of a full-scale model and CGI [ Gray, Simon. "One-Man Riot Squad." "American Cinematographer" Volume 88, issue 7, July 2007. p. 32.] [Douglas, Edward. [http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 "Bruce Willis Gets a Second Life!"] , comingsoon.net, 14 June 2007 Retrieved: 15 July 2007.] to significantly dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.

ee also

aircontent
related=
* Lockheed Martin X-35
* F-22 Raptor
similar aircraft=
* AV-8B Harrier II
* Boeing X-32
* Sukhoi PAK FA
lists=
* List of fighter aircraft
* List of active United States military aircraft
see also=
* Fifth generation aircraft
* Royal Navy in the 21st century

Media

References

Notes

Bibliography

* Kopp, Carlo and Peter Goon. [http://www.ausairpower.net/jsf.html "Joint Strike Fighter."] "Air Power Australia". Retrieved: 15 July 2007.
* Spick, Mike. "The Illustrated Directory of Fighters". London: Salamander, 2002. ISBN 1-84065-384-1.
* Winchester, Jim. "Lockheed Martin X-35/F-35 JSF." "Concept Aircraft: Prototypes, X-Planes and Experimental Aircraft". Kent, UK: Grange Books plc., 2005. ISBN 1-84013-309-2.

External links

* [http://www.jsf.mil/ Official JSF web site]
* [http://www.teamjsf.com/ Official Team JSF industry web site]
* [http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/f35jointstrikefighter.cfm F-35 - Royal Air Force]
* [http://acquisition.navy.mil/programs/air/f_35_jsf US Navy Research, Development & Acquisition, F-35 page]
* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 - Global Security]
* [http://www.aerospaceweb.org/aircraft/fighter/f35/ F-35 profile] and [http://www.aerospaceweb.org/question/planes/q0163.shtml F-35 weapons carriage on Aerospaceweb.org]
* [http://www.f-35jsf.net/ F-35 JSF news articles]
* [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/12/18/220382/pictures-lockheed-martin-rolls-out-vertical-lift-f-35b-jsf.html F-35B Roll out pictures]
* [http://www.armedforces-int.com/projects/combat-aircraft/f35-lighting-ii-joint-strike-fighter.asp F35 Article - Armed Forces]