F-35 Lightning II news https://www.f-16.net/ F-16 Fighting Falcon news brought to you by F-16.net en-us F-16 Fighting Falcon news https://www.f-16.net/graphics/f16.gif https://www.f-16.net/ webmaster@f-16.net US F-35 damaged by suspected Iranian fire makes emergency landing Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 EST March 19, 2026 (by F-16.net) - A United States Air Force F‑35 Lightning II stealth fighter was forced to make an emergency landing at a U.S. base in the Middle East after being struck by what U.S. military officials described as suspected Iranian fire during a combat mission over Iran, according to multiple reports on Thursday.
USAF F-35A #20-5622 - destined for the 34th FS - is seen on an unrestricted climb to 15500 feet at NAS Fort Worth for engine checks on June 14th, 2022. [Photo by Tim Wurth]
USAF F-35A #20-5622 - destined for the 34th FS - is seen on an unrestricted climb to 15500 feet at NAS Fort Worth for engine checks on June 14th, 2022. [Photo by Tim Wurth]
U.S. Central Command spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins confirmed that the aircraft landed safely and that its pilot was in stable condition. The cause of the incident is under investigation, with initial indications suggesting the aircraft was hit while flying a combat sortie over Iranian territory.

The incident appears to be the first time a U.S. aircraft has been damaged by enemy action in the ongoing high‑tempo air campaign against Iran, which began in late February 2026. Earlier in the conflict, unmanned systems such as MQ‑9 Reaper drones were shot down, but manned combat jets had largely avoided such losses.

U.S. officials have maintained that their forces, including fifth‑generation fighters, have achieved a high degree of air superiority. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed that U.S. objectives in the conflict remain unchanged and that the campaign has targeted thousands of Iranian military positions.

While the aircraft was reportedly struck by hostile fire, no official confirmation has been released that Iran’s forces successfully shot it down. The jet was able to leave Iranian airspace and reach a friendly base before landing. The nature of the damage — whether from missile fire, anti‑aircraft artillery, or other systems — has not been publicly detailed.

At least 16 U.S. military aircraft have been destroyed or damaged since the conflict began, the majority unmanned, reflecting the risks of operating in contested airspace populated with modern as well as legacy air defence systems.

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Forum discussion: ]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4958.html Danish F-35s and French MRTT tanker train in Southeast Greenland Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 EST January 16, 2026 (by Danish Armed Forces) - Today, two Danish F-35 fighter jets and a French MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) tanker aircraft carried out a planned training mission in southeastern Greenland.
Danish F-35s and a French Airbus MRTT aerial tanker conducting air operations in southeastern Greenland. [Danish DoD photo]
Danish F-35s and a French Airbus MRTT aerial tanker conducting air operations in southeastern Greenland. [Danish DoD photo]
The mission aimed to practice joint operations involving aerial refueling, long-distance flights, and safety under the harsh Arctic conditions.

The aircraft route went from Fighter Wing Skrydstrup directly to the area around Kulusuk on Greenland’s east coast. The French tanker aircraft departed from its base in southern France, to which it returned after completing the training in Greenland. During the training in the North Atlantic, the aircraft also passed the Faroe Islands.

Last year, Denmark and France conducted similar training activities on several occasions, but with Danish F-16 fighter jets and along Greenland’s west coast. This activity was part of the general strengthening of air operations in Arctic regions and contributed to building shared experience in operating under cold, challenging conditions.

The increased military activity follows the Danish Armed Forces’ strengthened presence and training activity in and around Greenland in 2025 together with allies, including France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway.

This effort will continue in 2026 with a range of air-, sea-, and land-based activities to improve the ability to operate in extreme Arctic environments. Flights involving F-35 fighter jets and tanker aircraft will therefore continue in the period ahead.

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The Danish F-35s, supported by a French Airbus MRTT aerial tanker, fly over the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic. [Danish DoD photo]
The Danish F-35s, supported by a French Airbus MRTT aerial tanker, fly over the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic. [Danish DoD photo]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4957.html Finland’s first F-35A JF‑501 takes to the skies Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 EST December 10, 2025 (by Lieven Dewitte) - Finland’s first F-35A Lightning II has completed its maiden flight over Texas, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition from the F/A-18C/D Hornet to a fifth‑generation fighter fleet. The jet, designated JF‑501, is the lead aircraft in a 64‑strong F-35A order.
Finland’s first F-35A (#JF-501) completes its maiden flight at NAS Fort Worth on December 8th, 2025. [Lockheed Martin photo]
Finland’s first F-35A (#JF-501) completes its maiden flight at NAS Fort Worth on December 8th, 2025. [Lockheed Martin photo]
JF‑501 carried out its first flight on 8 December 2025 from Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, adjacent to Lockheed Martin’s F-35 production line. The sortie was a factory test flight flown by a company test pilot and followed completion of final assembly, application of full Finnish Air Force markings and a period of ground checks and systems testing.

This aircraft had left the final assembly line in late October 2025, keeping to the schedule set when the forward fuselage was ceremonially signed by retired Finnish Air Force colonel Henrik Elo, now the nation’s F-35 program director. An official roll‑out event at Fort Worth, attended by Finland’s president, is planned shortly after the maiden flight to formally unveil the jet.

Replacing the Hornet fleet
Finland is acquiring 64 F-35A conventional take‑off and landing variants to replace its remaining fleet of legacy F/A‑18C/D Hornets on essentially a one‑for‑one basis. That stands out from many other F-35 customers, who often buy fewer stealth fighters than the aircraft they retire, and underlines Helsinki’s intent to preserve – and in some areas expand – its fighter capacity.

The decision followed a lengthy HX fighter competition in which the F-35A was evaluated against the F/A‑18E/F Super Hornet, Rafale, Eurofighter and Gripen. In that process the F-35’s low observability, sensor fusion and growth potential were judged to give the best overall operational effect across air defense, strike and intelligence roles, within a program budget that represents the largest defense investment in Finnish history.

F-35A configuration and capabilities
All Finnish F-35A airframes will be delivered with the Technology Refresh 3 (TR‑3) electronics suite. TR‑3 provides a more powerful mission computer and an open‑architecture backbone intended to support future Block 4 software drops, new weapons and additional sensors over the jet’s life.

With the F-35’s AESA radar, electro‑optical targeting and distributed aperture sensors, Finnish jets will act not only as shooters but as high‑end information nodes for the wider joint force. The aircraft are expected to carry the usual mix of modern air‑to‑air missiles and precision‑guided munitions, giving Finland both a robust air‑policing tool and a credible long‑range strike option once the fleet is fully equipped.

Drag chute and cold‑weather operations
Finland is among a small group of F-35 operators, alongside Norway and Canada, to select the optional drag chute. The braking parachute is housed in a fairing between the vertical tails and is designed to improve stopping performance on short, wet or icy runways typical of northern climates.

Although any external fairing has some impact on radar signature, the chute housing has been shaped to keep the additional radar cross‑section as low as practical while still meeting safety and reliability requirements. The system supports Finland’s long‑standing concept of dispersed operations from austere bases and road strips, a key element in keeping its fighter fleet survivable in a high‑threat scenario.

Basing and entry into service
According to the current fielding plan, the first batch of Finnish F-35A aircraft will begin service in 2026 at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas. There they will support the training of Finnish pilots and maintainers alongside personnel from other F-35 partner nations.

Later in 2026, the first jets are scheduled to arrive in Finland itself, initially joining Fighter Squadron 11 of the Lapland Air Wing at Rovaniemi in the north. From 2028, additional aircraft will stand up operations at the Karelia Air Wing at Kuopio in south‑east Finland, giving the country two F-35 bases, each only around 100 miles from the Russian border.

Role within NATO’s northern air defense

With Finland now a NATO member, the F-35A fleet will plug directly into the alliance’s integrated air and missile defense architecture. The positioning of F-35s at Rovaniemi and Kuopio will allow rapid interception over both the Barents and Baltic regions, reinforcing an area where Allied and Russian air activity already sits in close proximity.

As more European nations bring their own F-35 fleets online, Finland’s aircraft will become part of a broader network of stealth fighters stretching from the High North to central Europe. For a country that has long prioritized resilience, mobilization and territorial defense, JF‑501’s first flight is more than a test milestone – it is the opening move in reshaping how Finland protects its airspace and supports NATO along Russia’s northern frontier.

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Tail detail of Finland’s first F-35A #JF-501. [Lockheed Martin photo]
Tail detail of Finland’s first F-35A #JF-501. [Lockheed Martin photo]
The Finnish Air Force’s first F-35A following assembly at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas. [Lockheed Martin photo]
The Finnish Air Force’s first F-35A following assembly at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas. [Lockheed Martin photo]
The first Finnish F-35A flew its first flight from the fighter factory in Fort Worth on December 8th, 2025. [Photo by Dan McClinton]
The first Finnish F-35A flew its first flight from the fighter factory in Fort Worth on December 8th, 2025. [Photo by Dan McClinton]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4956.html Trump administration expected to approve potential F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia Sun, 16 Nov 2025 00:00:00 EST November 16, 2025 (by Lieven Dewitte) - The Trump administration is expected to push ahead with a plan allowing Saudi Arabia to acquire the F-35 stealth fighter, according to a senior U.S. official.
IDFAF F-35A #930 and #932 from Tayeset 116 are flying together on a familiarisation flight over Israel on May 5th, 2020. [IDFAF photo]
IDFAF F-35A #930 and #932 from Tayeset 116 are flying together on a familiarisation flight over Israel on May 5th, 2020. [IDFAF photo]
The announcement is likely to coincide with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the White House on Tuesday, where both sides are preparing to sign several economic and defense agreements.

Saudi Arabia has been seeking the F-35 for years. If approved, the deal would overturn decades of U.S. policy that restricted access to the aircraft in the Middle East to preserve Israel’s qualitative military edge. The F-35, built by Lockheed Martin, is among the most advanced and closely guarded platforms in the U.S. arsenal.

While previous administrations—Republican and Democratic—blocked Riyadh’s requests over security and reliability concerns, Trump appears willing to move forward despite continuing objections from Israel, the Pentagon, and the U.S. intelligence community. Critics note that Trump has repeatedly brushed aside complex regional dynamics in favor of headline-friendly deals and personal relationships with foreign leaders.

U.S. defense officials have raised additional alarms about Saudi Arabia’s deepening military ties with China. A Pentagon assessment warned that sensitive F-35 technology could be at risk if transferred to a country that has collaborated with Beijing on ballistic missile development and surveillance infrastructure. Those concerns appear to have done little to slow Trump’s push.

The potential sale comes at a time when Trump is pressuring Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords and normalize relations with Israel—while simultaneously entertaining a weapons package that undermines Israel’s long-standing security red lines. Analysts say the contradictory approach reflects Trump’s tendency to prioritize short-term optics over strategic consistency.

Also on the agenda are access to advanced AI chips, nuclear technology cooperation, and discussions on Gaza, despite the administration offering few details on how these issues align with broader U.S. policy. Observers have criticized Trump for treating highly sensitive defense matters as transactional leverage rather than as components of a coherent foreign-policy strategy.

U.S.–Saudi ties were severely strained following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. While many Western governments distanced themselves from Riyadh, Trump repeatedly defended the crown prince, dismissing U.S. intelligence findings and publicly stating that arms deals were “too lucrative to walk away from.” The F-35 proposal continues that pattern, placing economic and political considerations ahead of democratic values and long-standing security safeguards.

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IDFAF F-35A #924 was delivered to MANAT in August of 2020. It is the dedicated Israeli F-35A test platform. [F-35.net collection]
IDFAF F-35A #924 was delivered to MANAT in August of 2020. It is the dedicated Israeli F-35A test platform. [F-35.net collection]
USAF F-35A #19-5482 destined for the 355 FS is seen banking in for runway 36 at NAS Fort Worth on January 10th, 2022. [Photo by Tim Wurth]
USAF F-35A #19-5482 destined for the 355 FS is seen banking in for runway 36 at NAS Fort Worth on January 10th, 2022. [Photo by Tim Wurth]
USAF F-35A #18-5374 from the 6th WPS departs after receiving fuel from a KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to the 92nd ARW during the Weapons Integration course over the Nevada Test and Training Range on December 11th, 2023. Air refueling crews assigned to the 92nd, 93rd and 97th ARS's at Fairchild AFB, participated in the WSINT course to enhance interoperability with a variety of aircraft and demonstrate how Air Mobility Command’s air refueling capabilities enhance global reach for all Department of Defense air operations. WSINT is a series of complex, large-force employment missions that serve as the capstone portion of Weapons School classes, which take place twice a year at Nellis AFB. WSINT students plan and execute every aspect of air, space and cyber combat operations, with joint force components converging over the Nevada Test and Training Range. [USAF photo by SrA. Haiden Morris]
USAF F-35A #18-5374 from the 6th WPS departs after receiving fuel from a KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to the 92nd ARW during the Weapons Integration course over the Nevada Test and Training Range on December 11th, 2023. Air refueling crews assigned to the 92nd, 93rd and 97th ARS's at Fairchild AFB, participated in the WSINT course to enhance interoperability with a variety of aircraft and demonstrate how Air Mobility Command’s air refueling capabilities enhance global reach for all Department of Defense air operations. WSINT is a series of complex, large-force employment missions that serve as the capstone portion of Weapons School classes, which take place twice a year at Nellis AFB. WSINT students plan and execute every aspect of air, space and cyber combat operations, with joint force components converging over the Nevada Test and Training Range. [USAF photo by SrA. Haiden Morris]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4955.html Belgium welcomes its first F-35 fighters at Florennes Air Base Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 EST October 14, 2025 (by Lieven Dewitte) - Belgium officially entered the fifth-generation fighter era yesterday as the first three F-35A Lightning II aircraft arrived at Florennes Air Base, marking the nation’s first introduction of a new fighter type in nearly 50 years.
The first F-35A Lightning II's have officially arrived at the Florennes AB on October 13th, 2025. [Photo by Adrien Muylaert]
The first F-35A Lightning II's have officially arrived at the Florennes AB on October 13th, 2025. [Photo by Adrien Muylaert]
The aircraft (FL009, FL010, and FL012) arrived directly from the United States, though the long-awaited event began on a slightly muted note. Originally, four F-35s were scheduled to make the flight to Belgium, but one aircraft (FL011) was forced to remain behind in the Azores due to technical issues.

The arrival represents a major milestone for the Belgian Air Component, which ordered 34 F-35A fighters to replace its aging fleet of F-16s. The acquisition program is valued at approximately €4 billion for the aircraft, support, training, and infrastructure. When including full lifecycle costs such as maintenance, spare parts, and operational use over several decades, total expenditures are expected to reach between €12.4 and €15 billion.

Three of the promised four aircraft now gleam on the Florennes tarmac. The base will eventually host 17 F-35s, while the remaining jets are planned to be stationed at Kleine-Brogel by 2027.

Although these are the first Belgian F-35s to land on home soil, Lockheed Martin has already completed a dozen aircraft for Belgium. Eight (FL001 - FL008) remain with the 312th FS at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where Belgian and other allied pilots receive training on the F-35. Those aircraft will continue to be used for training purposes in the years to come.

The F-35 also carries a distinct European — and partly Belgian — footprint. About 25 percent of the aircraft is produced in Europe, including components made in Belgium such as parts of the tail and the specialized coating used on the jet’s stealthy surface.

Beyond modernizing Belgium’s air fleet, the F-35’s arrival also reinforces the country’s strategic role within NATO. The aircraft is capable of carrying U.S. nuclear weapons stored at Kleine-Brogel Air Base, maintaining Belgium’s participation in NATO’s nuclear deterrence mission. The F-35’s advanced sensors and combat systems also make it a vital platform for detecting and neutralizing modern aerial threats such as drones — a capability recently demonstrated by Dutch F-35s operating in Poland.

With the arrival of these aircraft, Belgium joins the growing list of European nations transitioning to the F-35, signaling a new chapter in the country’s air defense and NATO contribution. The Belgian Ministry of Defence has also expressed interest in ordering 11 additional F-35s, which would be built in Cameri, Italy, pending government approval.

[Update 24/10/2025: FL011 finally arrived in Florennes]

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The first F-35A Lightning II's have officially arrived at the Florennes AB on October 13th, 2025. [Photo by Adrien Muylaert]
The first F-35A Lightning II's have officially arrived at the Florennes AB on October 13th, 2025. [Photo by Adrien Muylaert]
The first F-35A Lightning II's have officially arrived at the Florennes AB on October 13th, 2025. [Photo by Adrien Muylaert]
The first F-35A Lightning II's have officially arrived at the Florennes AB on October 13th, 2025. [Photo by Adrien Muylaert]
BAF F-35A #FL009 going to the 312th FS is coming in for landing after a local test flight at NAS Fort Worth on August 15th, 2025. [Photo by Keith Snyder]
BAF F-35A #FL009 going to the 312th FS is coming in for landing after a local test flight at NAS Fort Worth on August 15th, 2025. [Photo by Keith Snyder]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4954.html US Navy F-35C crashes near NAS Lemoore in California Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 EST July 30, 2025 (by Bjorn Claes) - A US Navy F-35C went down this evening around 18:00h near NAS Lemoore in central California. The pilot managed to eject safely,
USNavy F-35C #170541 from VFA-125 is coming in for landing with flaps down on January 31st, 2025. [TF23 Aviation photo]
This is not the aircraft that crashed today, but mere a theme picture of a VFA-125 F-35C.
Footage from the crash showed flames and dense black smoke coming from the crash site, approximately 40 miles (64 kilometers) southwest of Fresno. Emergency medical crews responded swiftly to assist the pilot.

The downed aircraft belonged to Strike Fighter Squadron VFA-125, dubbed the “Rough Raiders.” As a Fleet Replacement Squadron, VF-125 plays a critical role in training Navy pilots and aircrew.

This crash is the second one this year. In January an Air Force F-35A crashed at Eielson AFN in Alaska during training. Fortunately, that pilot also ejected safely.

Although this crash once again raises questions about the aircraft's reliability, the track record of all variants of the F-35 is outstanding. Compaired to other fighter platforms, the jet still has the lowest accident rate after more then 10 years of operations. The fact that the jet is being introduced in many air forces usually sees a rise in accidents, but with the F-35 the opposite is true.

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]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4953.html F-35 crashes on Eielson AFB flightline in Alaska – Pilot safe Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 EST January 29, 2025 (by Lieven Dewitte) - An F-35 fighter jet crashed Tuesday at 12:49PM on a flightline on Eielson Air Force Base. The pilot safely parachuted out after ejecting. The pilot was in the process of landing during a training exercise when his jet suffered an “inflight malfunction,” forcing him to eject.
An F-35 fighter jet crashed Tuesday at about 12:49PM on a flightline on Eielson Air Force Base. The pilot safely ejected.
An F-35 fighter jet crashed Tuesday at about 12:49PM on a flightline on Eielson Air Force Base. The pilot safely ejected.
According to Col. Paul Townsend, commander of the 354th Fighter Wing, the pilot was executing normal, standard procedures when the crash occurred.

The dramatic incident was caught on video as the jet approached landing. The footage shows the aircraft spinning tightly with its landing gear extended before descending almost vertically and crashing in a fiery explosion. A deployed parachute, indicating the pilot’s ejection, is visible in the recording.

An F-35 fighter jet crashed Tue 28/01 at about 12:49PM on a flightline on Eielson Air Force Base - the pilot safely ejected. Article: f-16.net/f-35-news-ar... #f35 #eielson #crash

[image or embed]

— F-35 Lightning II (@f-35net.bsky.social) 29 januari 2025 om 09:02


Eielson Air Force Base, located about 25 miles south of Fairbanks, serves as an operational hub for 54 of these fifth-generation jets with both the 355th Fighter Squadron and the 356th Fighter Squadron. The base received its first two F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft on April 21, 2020.

In May, an F-35 en route from Texas to Edwards Air Force Base in California crashed shortly after a refueling stop in New Mexico. The pilot sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.

The average price of one new F-35 was set at roughly $81 million in a preliminary deal for a large order of new aircraft between the U.S. Department of Defense and manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

Consider to follow us on Bluesky for more F-35 news and updates.

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USAF F-35A (AF-02) with major Jonathan 'Spades' Gilbert, a USAF F-35 test pilot, demonstrates the handling qualities of the F-35 during icy runway ground testing at Eielson AFB in November of 2017. The testing is part of the certification process for the Norwegian drag chute. [Lockheed photo]
USAF F-35A (AF-02) with major Jonathan 'Spades' Gilbert, a USAF F-35 test pilot, demonstrates the handling qualities of the F-35 during icy runway ground testing at Eielson AFB in November of 2017. The testing is part of the certification process for the Norwegian drag chute. [Lockheed photo]
USAF F-35A #19-5492 from the 355th FS is landing in Eielson AFB on March 29th during its delivery flight to the unit. [USAF photo]
USAF F-35A #19-5492 from the 355th FS is landing in Eielson AFB on March 29th during its delivery flight to the unit. [USAF photo]
USAF F-35A #19-5468 assigned to the 355th FS takes off during Red Flag-Alaska 24-3 at Eielson AFB on August 22nd, 2024. [USAF photo by SrA. Julia Lebens]
USAF F-35A #19-5468 assigned to the 355th FS takes off during Red Flag-Alaska 24-3 at Eielson AFB on August 22nd, 2024. [USAF photo by SrA. Julia Lebens]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4952.html Norwegian F-35s achieve milestone with sustainable fuel integration Sun, 19 Jan 2025 00:00:00 EST January 19, 2025 (by Lieven Dewitte) - In a groundbreaking development for military aviation, Norway has become the first nation to operate F-35 Lightning II fighter jets using a significant proportion of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
F-35 fueling up on Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel with a Norwegian jet. [LMTAS photo]
F-35 fueling up on Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel with a Norwegian jet. [LMTAS photo]
On January 14, 2025, the Royal Norwegian Air Force conducted a successful test flight at Ørland Air Base, utilizing a fuel blend containing 40% biofuel derived from waste oils and agricultural byproducts.

This initiative aligns with Norway's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy resilience. Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasized the dual benefits of this advancement, stating, "Using sustainable fuel can reduce emissions and strengthen supply security. The aim is to contribute to achieving climate targets while enhancing preparedness."

Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, has approved the use of synthetic aviation turbine fuels (SATFs) for the entire F-35 fleet. This approval allows for the operation of F-35 aircraft on synthetic fuel blends of up to 50% mixed with conventional jet fuel, depending on the source and production method.

Chauncey McIntosh, Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin, highlighted the strategic importance of this development: "Adding new fuel sources helps make this happen by diversifying the supply chain while maintaining operational excellence."

The successful integration of SAF into F-35 operations not only demonstrates the aircraft's versatility but also sets a precedent for other nations. As the defense sector seeks to balance operational readiness with environmental responsibility, Norway's achievement serves as a model for sustainable military aviation practices.

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]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4951.html Polish F-35 program takes off: first pilots begin training in 2025 Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:00:00 EST December 24, 2024 (by Lieven Dewitte) - On Monday, December 23, 2024, the first two Polish F-35A Husarz jets touched down at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas, marking a significant milestone in Poland's transition to fifth-generation fighter capabilities.
The 33rd FW welcomed the arrival of the first two Polish Air Force F-35A aircraft at Ebbing ANGB on December 23rd, 2024. [ANG photo by A1C. Miles Chrisman]
The 33rd Fighter Wing and Ebbing Air National Guard Base welcomed the arrival of the first two Polish Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft at Ebbing Air National Guard Base, Fort SMith, Arkansas on December 23, 2024
Poland's journey into the fifth-generation fighter jet era is set to begin in January 2025 when the first two Polish pilots start flying the F-35A Lightning II. These aircraft are likely the first two to have completed their test flights in December 2024: AZ-02 on December 2 and AZ-01 on December 3. A third aircraft, (AZ-03), followed shortly after on December 17. Ultimately, eight F-35s will be stationed at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas to support Poland's extensive training program.

Comprehensive training program in the U.S.
The training program at Ebbing will prepare 24 Polish pilots and 92 technical personnel by 2027. The pilots will be trained to instructor-level proficiency, enabling them to lead future training in Poland. The Integrated Training Center in Poland, equipped with eight full-mission simulators, will host this domestic phase of pilot instruction.

The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), part of the U.S. Department of Defense, plays a key role in the process. Each F-35 undergoes two acceptance flights by the manufacturer and an additional two flights under DCMA supervision before being formally handed over to the Polish Air Force.

A cutting-edge fleet
Poland is acquiring 32 F-35A aircraft under a $4.6 billion intergovernmental agreement signed on January 31, 2020. These jets will feature the advanced Block 4 configuration and Technical Refresh 3 (TR3) systems, ensuring state-of-the-art capabilities. The first squadron is scheduled to be operational at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask by late 2025 or early 2026, with the second squadron to follow at the 21st Tactical Air Base in Świdwin by 2030.

Weapons and future capabilities
Poland's F-35As will be armed with a robust array of munitions, including Northrop Grumman AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles for extended-range anti-radiation missions, AGM-158B-2 JASSM-ER cruise missiles, AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles, and AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles. The country is also exploring options for anti-ship missiles to further enhance the fleet's versatility.

Strategic implications
The deployment of the F-35A marks a significant leap in Poland's defense capabilities, providing unmatched stealth, sensor fusion, and multi-role adaptability. With a growing emphasis on regional security, these aircraft will bolster NATO's eastern flank and serve as a key deterrent against evolving threats.

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PolAF F-35A #3503 is performing a sharp right turn on a test flight from NAS Fort Worth on December 20th, 2024. [Photo by Sam Combs]
PolAF F-35A #3503 is performing a sharp right turn on a test flight from NAS Fort Worth on December 20th, 2024. [Photo by Sam Combs]
PolAF F-35A #3503 is seen landing at NAS Fort Worth on December 17th, 2024. [Photo by Tim Wurth]
PolAF F-35A #3503 is seen landing at NAS Fort Worth on December 17th, 2024. [Photo by Tim Wurth]
PolAF F3-35A #3502 is photographed coming in for landing after its first test flight on December 2nd, 2024 at NAS Fort Worth. [Photo by Victoria Fontana]
PolAF F3-35A #3502 is photographed coming in for landing after its first test flight on December 2nd, 2024 at NAS Fort Worth. [Photo by Victoria Fontana]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-35-news-article4950.html The first Belgian F-35A arrives at Luke AFB Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:00:00 EST December 9, 2024 (by SrA Mason Hargrove) - The first Belgian F-35A Lightning II arrived at Luke Air Force Base, Dec. 3, 2024. This milestone marks the beginning of Belgium’s transition from the F-16 Fighting Falcon to the advanced F-35A, ushering in a new era for the Belgian Air Component.
Members of the 312th FS inspect the first Belgian F-35A at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. This was the first Belgian Air Component F-35A to arrive at Luke AFB, marking a milestone as Belgium and the U.S. collaborate to build a new fighter squadron. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson]
Members of the 312th FS inspect the first Belgian F-35A at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. This was the first Belgian Air Component F-35A to arrive at Luke AFB, marking a milestone as Belgium and the U.S. collaborate to build a new fighter squadron. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson]
The initial cadre of Belgian pilots is at Luke AFB to commence training, as Belgium and the United States collaborate to build a new fighter squadron from scratch.

“It’s a historic day for the Belgian Air Component,” said Belgian Air Component Lt. Col. Pierre-Yves Libert, 312th Fighter Squadron senior national representative. “Our first jet just landed at Luke AFB, marking the start of our training period. A lot of work has gone into making this moment possible and we are excited to begin flying and complete our training.”

The 312th FS is eagerly awaiting a newly renovated building to enhance their training capabilities. Experienced Belgian pilots are also participating in the Simulator Subject Matter Expert course, preparing them to establish their own academic training center back home.

“What’s been so neat over the last few years is understanding how close of allies Belgium is with the United States and our shared NATO partnership in Europe,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jason Wall, 312th FS commander. “Everyone’s worked really hard for this momentous day. More jets will arrive in the coming months, and our students are ready to fly as soon as maintenance turns this jet over for operations.”

The arrival of the F-35A signifies the beginning of a new chapter with fifth-generation fighter capabilities. The joint effort in building a new fighter squadron underscores the strong partnership and shared defense goals between the two nations.

“It’s such an honor to command the 312th FS and build this team from the ground up,” Wall added. “This moment reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. I’m proud to lead this effort and set up the squadron for success.”

More Belgian F-35As are scheduled to arrive at Luke AFB over the next few months, reinforcing the base’s role as the premier training location for U.S. allies and partners. The collaboration extends beyond pilot training, as both countries work together to enhance operational readiness and strengthen NATO alliances.

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Members of the 312th FS inspect the first Belgian F-35A at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. This was the first Belgian Air Component F-35A to arrive at Luke AFB, marking a milestone as Belgium and the U.S. collaborate to build a new fighter squadron. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson]
Members of the 312th FS inspect the first Belgian F-35A at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. This was the first Belgian Air Component F-35A to arrive at Luke AFB, marking a milestone as Belgium and the U.S. collaborate to build a new fighter squadron. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson]
Members of the new 312th FS pose in front of the first Belgian Air Component F- 35A to arrive at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. More Belgian Air Component F-35As are scheduled to arrive at Luke AFB over the next few months, reinforcing the base’s role as the premier training location for US and partner nation F-35 pilots. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson)
Members of the new 312th FS pose in front of the first Belgian Air Component F- 35A to arrive at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. More Belgian Air Component F-35As are scheduled to arrive at Luke AFB over the next few months, reinforcing the base’s role as the premier training location for US and partner nation F-35 pilots. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson)
USAF Lt. Col. Jason Wall, 312th FS commander, smiles after landing the first Belgian Air Component F-35A at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. More Belgian Air Component F-35As are scheduled to arrive at Luke AFB over the next few months, reinforcing Luke AFB’s role as the premier training location for U.S. and partner nation F-35 pilots. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson]
USAF Lt. Col. Jason Wall, 312th FS commander, smiles after landing the first Belgian Air Component F-35A at Luke AFB on December 3rd, 2024. More Belgian Air Component F-35As are scheduled to arrive at Luke AFB over the next few months, reinforcing Luke AFB’s role as the premier training location for U.S. and partner nation F-35 pilots. [USAF photo by SrA. Katelynn Jackson]
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