F-35Cs embark on maiden operational deployment
USS Abraham Lincoln, pictured on 3 January leaving San Diego. (Photo: USN/MC1 Robert S Price)
The USMC is deploying F-35C Lightning II aircraft operationally for the first time in a USN carrier strike group (CSG) that departed from San Diego on 3 January for a scheduled deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.
F-35Cs from VMFA-314 (part of Carrier Air Wing 9) are aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. VMFA-314 declared FOC in July 2021.
In addition, USN CMV-22B Osprey tiltrotors from the VRM-30 fleet logistics squadron will also deploy for the first time.
The CSG also comprises the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay, and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Fitzgerald, USS Gridley, USS Sampson and USS Spruance.
More from Air Warfare
-
Malaysia signs contracts for light combat aircraft and MALE UAVs
Malaysia announced several important aircraft contracts at LIMA 2023, including UAVs and light combat aircraft.
-
MQ-28 Ghost Bat ‘could fit the bill’ for UK's Loyal Wingman capability needs, says Boeing
The affordability of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat will play a crucial role in determining its suitability for the UK's defence needs. With studies under way to determine the affordability threshold, discussions also focus on the contribution this capability could make to the domestic industrial base.
-
General Atomics empowers US Army MDO demo with Gray Eagle
In support of the US Army, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) has integrated and tested new capabilities on the Gray Eagle Extended Range (GE-ER) as part of an effort to modernise the UAS for multi-domain operations (MDO).
-
Malaysia orders ATR 72 MPA aircraft from Leonardo
Leonardo has scored a hard-won contract to supply maritime patrol aircraft to Malaysia.
-
US V-22 Osprey clutch-related grounding issue remains mystery
The US government and industry aim to complete the replacement of affected clutch parts by autumn. The Japanese V-22 fleet is expected to follow the same procedure to avoid the the same problem arising.
-
Trillium imaging payloads selected for British Army's Stalker VXE30 drone fleet
Trillium Engineering's HD55 series payloads will equip the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works Stalker VXE30 ISR UAS supplied to the British Army under the UK MoD's Project Tiquila effort.