US Marine Corps' VMFA 314 receives first F-35Cs
The US Marine Corps’ 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) has received the first F-35C Lightning II fighter jet for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314 at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.
The squadron, known as the ‘Black Knights’, will lead the introduction of the F-35C to 3rd MAW.
The F-35C is one of three variants fielded by the US Department of Defense. The C variant is designed to operate from aircraft carriers, with control surfaces and landing gear equipped for carrier operation. It also has large internal fuel storage and the ability to refuel in-flight, extending its range and allowing for enhanced flight time.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)
The Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jet remains in the limelight more than 40 years after its first flight. Shephard sums up the latest developments and details everything you need to know about the aircraft in 2026.
-
Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026
The aerospace company’s 2025 performance figures revealed significant orders from various European armed forces and a boost in demand for its uncrewed offerings.
-
January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026
The first month of 2026 has seen activity in the MALE, rotary-wing, and loitering munition UAV markets, with significant investments and commitments from Germany, Turkey, the UAE and the US. At the same time, questions over loitering munition performance in Ukraine highlight the growing scrutiny alongside rising demand.
-
Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities
While an estimated $37.99bn is still to be awarded across the Asia-Pacific uncrewed aerial vehicle market, the balance of potential future spending is unevenly split between various countries, with significant opportunities to be found in the collaborative combat aircraft space.