Story Category: Live Updates »

Cmdr. Eric Buus and Marine Corps Lt. Col. Matthew Taylor fly F-35C test aircraft CF-1 and CF-2 respectively on a formation test flight in the Atlantic test range April 18. The test flights included a formation takeoff and landing, and structural loads testing on CF-2. The F-35C carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with its larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear to withstand catapult launches and deck landing impacts associated with the demanding aircraft carrier environment. The F-35C is undergoing test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River prior to delivery to the fleet. (Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin)