Fighter Jets in Action

A collection of modern fighter jets including the F-35A and F-22, showcasing taxiing, take-off, and operations on various air bases. Highlights military readiness and advanced technology.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Blake, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 refuels an F-35B Lightning II at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, in preparation of a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Maj. Gen. Jay Silveria, U. S. Air Force Warfare Center commander, steers his F-35A Lightning II along the yellow taxi line prior to a hot pit refueling session during his final flight qualification Sept. 26 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Silveria became the first general officer in the Department of Defense to qualify in the fifth generation fighter. He completed his training with back-to-back flights and hot pit refueling.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 421st Fighter Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, taxis the flight line at Tyndall AFB, Florida, Oct. 28, 2022. The unit is visiting Tyndall to participate in Checkered Flag 23-1. Checkered Flag is a large-force aerial exercise which fosters readiness and interoperability through the incorporation of 4th- and 5th-generation aircraft during air-to-air combat training. The 23-1 iteration of the exercise was held Oct. 31 - Nov. 10, 2022.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle takes flight as an F-35A Lightning II prepares for shutdown after a training sortie at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, September 22, 2022. The F-35 squadron from Luke Air Force Base, AZ use Mountain Home AFB for the terrain and airspace in order to practice simulated combat scenarios.

220524-N-XN177-1087 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 24, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 24, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron (EFS) salutes an F-22 Raptor pilot as he taxis for take-off at Łask Air Base, Poland, Aug. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed to Łask Air Base, Poland to bolster NATOs collective defense posture through Air Shielding.

PHILIPPINE SEA (MAY 05, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Air Force Airman, a 525th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, marshals an F-22 Raptor during Polar Force 22-4 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 30, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is celebrating its 25th anniversary on April 9 and was designed to project air dominance, provide an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities, and defeat threats against our nations Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. U.S. forces will fly, sail, and operate anywhere international law allows, at the time and tempo of our choosing.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis the flight line after arriving to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 28, 2022. U.S. Marines with VMFA-121, VMFA-242, and Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533 conducted live-fire missile exercise to increase weapon proficiency and enhance squadrons combat readiness in the air-to-air environment.

An F-22 Raptor with the 90th Fighter Squadron, 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, lands at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, July 26, 2022. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and global Partners and this enhanced posture is a clear expression of NATOs commitment to readiness which promotes regional security and stability.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Blake, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 refuels an F-35B Lightning II at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, in preparation of a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

An F-35B Lightning II, assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, taxis to the runway at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, June 8, 2022. VMFAT-501 trains pilots to be proficient and combat ready to serve in their future-fleet units and to conduct aviation operations globally. VMFAT-501 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Servante R. Coba)

A 325th Fighter Wing F-22A Raptor taxis back after a mission as two more prepare to take off March 24 at Eglin Air Force Base,Fla. The 325th FWs Raptor aircraft has been at Eglin since 2018 after Hurricane Michael destroyed the Tyndall AFB facilities. The Raptors will soon depart Eglin for their new home, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

Crew Chiefs with the 421st Fighter Generation Squadron, prepare F-35A Lightning IIs for takeoff during Exercise Agile Tiger on April 4, 2022, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. This exercise demonstrates our Airmens capability, resilience, adaptability, and strength.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Emerson, commander of the 60th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, taxis an F-35A Lightning II aircraft after landing at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, July 12, 2022. The 33rd Fighter Wing is utilizing the Vermont Air National Guard air space to continue effective flying operations during hazardous summer weather at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

Italian Air Force F-35A parked in the hangar at Amendola Air Base, Italy.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Andrew Christ, an F-35B Lightning II pilot with Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron (VMX) 1, gives the go ahead to start refueling at the arming and refueling point set up by Marine Wing Support Squadron 372 during exercise Steel Knight 23, on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Dec. 8, 2022. VMX-1 demonstrated F-35B expeditionary advanced base capabilities through landings and take-offs at an austere airfield. Exercise Steel Knight 23 provides 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing an opportunity to refine Wing-level warfighting in support of I Marine Expeditionary Force and fleet maneuver.

A U.S. Air F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing takes off at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Oct. 26, 2022. JBERs F-22s support the Pacific Air Forces mission of force readiness and resilience to protect the homeland, deter aggression, and fly, fight, and win, if needed.

An F-22 Raptor from Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, goes through pre-flights checks before taking off on a training mission at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan.

Staff Sgt. Keyli Pillaro-Estrada, 57th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, waits to launch a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II during Black Flag 22-2 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Sept. 21, 2022. Members of the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps participated in consolidated F-35 Cross service maintenance and logistics during Black Flag 22-2.

Staff Sgt. Keyli Pillaro-Estrada, 57th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, waits to launch a Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II during Black Flag 22-2 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Sept. 21, 2022. Members of the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps participated in consolidated F-35 Cross service maintenance and logistics during Black Flag 22-2.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 28, 2022. Marines with VMFA-242 conducted close air support with inert GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs at Combined Arms Training Center, Fuji in support of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. This training marked the first-ever live close air support missions in Japan with an F-35B Lightning II aircraft.

The U.S. Air force 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and Marine Aircraft Group 12 performed a capabilities demonstration during a pre-planned readiness exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 7, 2022. The demonstration included five U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets, eight F-35B Lightning IIs, a KC-130J Super Hercules, 10 U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors and 10 F-35A Lightning II aircraft, showcasing a high level of readiness and joint service capability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. MCAS Iwakuni is uniquely qualified to enable the Joint Force, be it through providing use of the station's collocated harbor and airfield, serving as a staging point for non-organic aircraft operations, or any number of other operational activities.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Mauro Munoz assigned to Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, conducts preflight checks on an F-35B during Red Flag-24-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Jan. 17, 2024. This Red Flag will have approximately 30 units and close to 2,000 participants from U.S. and Allied forces.

A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing taxis an F-22 Raptor in preparation for takeoff at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Aug. 18, 2022. The 1st FW is responsible for one-third of the Air Force's combat F-22 Raptors in which multiple maintenance teams support, along with world class pilots to accomplish different mission sets, all while setting a standard of global air dominance.

050107-F-0986R-002. Base: Langley Air Force Base State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor conducts a heritage flight during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is the Air Forces fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Its combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor parks for a static display for The Great Texas Airshow, Apr. 22, 2022, at JBSA-Randolph, Texas. The Great Texas Airshow, featuring the Thunderbirds, is scheduled for April 22 thru 24 at JBSA-Randolph. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to excite and inspire while showcasing the elite skills all pilots must possess.

February 16, 2012 - An F-22 Raptor in flight during a training mission over Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 load AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air missiles into the internal weapons bay area of an F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 5, 2023. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12 routinely conduct arming, expeditionary refueling and flight operations to maintain proficiency and readiness in support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing receives fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Aerial Refueling Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Alaska, Aug. 1, 2022. The JPARC is the largest airspace over land that the Department of Defense has, its size is optimal to push the capabilities of fifth-generation aircraft pilots forward.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 and Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) 171 refuel an F-35B Lightning II aircraft during a Forward Arming and Refueling Point training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 5, 2023. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12 routinely conduct arming, expeditionary refueling and flight operations to maintain proficiency and readiness in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A 3rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief marshals a U.S. Air Force F-22A Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing for a hot pit refueling during a capabilities demonstration on Kadena Air Base, Japan, Nov. 22, 2022. Similar training is routinely conducted at U.S. Air Force bases across Japan and around the globe to ensure Airmens readiness to respond to a range of potential contingencies.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron land at RAF Lakenheath, England, Jan. 3, 2024. The Liberty Wing, along with NATO Allies, continue to strengthen deterrence efforts through regular flying sorties.

030926-F-7709A-010. Base: Tyndall Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AETC

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor prepares for landing.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 conduct hot pit refueling at Ie Shima, Japan, Oct. 18, 2022. Marine Corps pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 conduct field carrier landing practice training to maintain a high level of readiness in the Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, prepares for takeoff during Weapons System Evaluation Program East-22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 16, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadrons capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions.

PHILIPPINE SEA (January 29, 2024) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6) remove the chocks and chains from an F-35B Lightning II aircraft from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU) Air Combat Element (ACE), on the flight deck while sailing in the Philippine Sea, January 29. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, 49th Fighter Wing, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range for a training mission during Red Flag 11-3, March 3, 2011. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. The exercise is hosted north of Las Vegas on the Nevada Test and Training Range.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor participates in the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is the Air Forces fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Its combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Melanie MACH Kluesner, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team pilot and commander, flies an aerial demonstration certification flight at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Feb. 22, 2024. Upon the 388th Fighter Wing commander certification, the F-35 Demo Team pilot is required to complete the Air Combat Command Heritage Flight Training Course. Air Force

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dominic Youngren, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, sends off an F-35B Lightning II aircraft with VMFA-242 for routine flight operations during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 12, 2022. The Indo-Pacific is a top priority for the United States, and exercises like Red Flag-Alaska are committed to ensuring U.S. forces are capable and ready to face the evolving challenges in the region.

020919-F-3805C-011. Base: Spangdahlem Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

Over the Atlantic Ocean - A F-22A Raptor aggressively banks during a basic fighting maneuver training mission off the Virginia coast.

Capt. Kyle Benham, 62nd Fighter Squadron F-35A Lightning II fighter jet pilot, taxis down the ramp for takeoff during Red Flag 19-2 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., March 20, 2019. Benham previously had 72 hours in the F-35A before Red Flag, but accumulated more experience after flying five times during the exercise.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing flies over Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, during Polar Force 22-4, March 30, 2022. Polar Force was designed to develop the skills service members require when facing adverse situations and austere conditions, while demonstrating the Agile Combat Employments multiple-location concept. ACE exercises train Airmen to operate from locations with varying levels of capacity and support to emphasize the ability to deploy, survive, operate, maneuver, sustain, and regenerate in a simulated contested environment.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 325th Fighter Wing, Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida takes off from the Air Dominance Center for an air combat exercise at Sentry Savannah on May 10, 2022. Sentry Savannah is the Air National Guards largest air-to-air, joint aerial combat exercise for fourth- and fifth-generation fighters, which tests the capabilities of our warfighters in a simulated environment and trains the next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Ryston Archuleta, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron crew chief, performs final inspections on an F-22 Raptor before take-off from Ørland Main Air Station, Norway, Sept. 14, 2022. The 90 EFS forward deployed to Norway to conduct an agile combat employment (ACE) exercise with the Royal Norwegian Air Force and NATO Allies and partners. The joint training and integration provided in this ACE exercise improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron flies during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The Raptors uphold the Air Shielding mission alongside Polish F-16s and Italian Eurofighter Typhoons. The event showcased the importance of NATOs Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO Allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and postured to defend NATO territory.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck from the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), while underway, June 10, 2022. Marines with VMFA-121, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, are conducting flight operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jonathan Foster, 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, crew chief, from Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. removes the intake covers of an F-22 Raptor before a training mission during Red Flag 11-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., March 2, 2011. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. The exercise takes place north of Las Vegas on the Nevada Test and Training Range--the U.S. Air Force's premier military training area with more than 12,000 square miles of airspace and 2.9 million acres of land.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 388th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, takes off from Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 28, 2022 after conducting Agile Combat Employment operations at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. ACE is a new warfighting concept that U.S. Pacific Air Forces is operationalizing to ensure agility, deterrence, and resiliency in a contested or degraded environment.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 stage on the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during Valiant Shield 2022 (VS22), June 15, 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration takes place during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

Airmen assigned to the 90th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and Airmen assigned to the 52nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, conduct a hot-pit refuel of an F-22 Raptor at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Sept. 27, 2022. The aircraft, assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, is currently deployed to the 32nd Tactical Air Base, Łask, Poland. The Air Forces unique capability to accomplish its global reach links the U.S. to Allies and partners and the ability to base strategic assets in forward locations, postures NATO forces to extend global reach and amplify operational capability throughout Europe.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron flies alongside two Polish F-16s in formation during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The Raptors uphold the Air Shielding mission alongside Polish F-16s and Italian Eurofighter Typhoons. The event showcased the importance of NATOs Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO Allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and postured to defend NATO territory.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Cesar Arguello, 43d Fighter Generation Squadron assistant dedicated crew chief, signals to an F-22 Raptor pilot at Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia, May 3, 2022. The 325th Fighter Wing sent more than 200 personnel and 22 aircraft to participate in Sentry Savannah, a near-peer training exercise hosted by the Air National Guards Air Dominance Center.

220523-N-XN177-1295 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 23, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 23, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

A U.S. Air Force TX-course student pilot from the 33rd Fighter Wing completes first flight in an F-35A Lightning II at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 4, 2022. The TX-course is a course for experienced pilots transitioning to the F-35 from different fighter platforms.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing flies over Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, during Polar Force 22-4, April 1, 2022. This is the first Polar Force to be led by the 3rd Wing, with the primary focus on developing Agile Combat Employment and the U.S. Pacific Air Forces ability to fight in a contested, anti-access area denial environment. Operationalizing readiness-enhancing concepts like ACE is critical to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to 3rd Wing approaches the flight line at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Jan. 27, 2022. The F-22 is a fifth-generation fighter that is capable of performing both air-to-air and ground-to-ground missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andrew Britten)

Staff Sgt. Chris Hunter, 33rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, refuels Maj. Gen. Jay Silverias, U. S. Air Force Warfare Center commander, F-35A Lightning II at a hot pit session during the generals final qualifying flight Sept. 26 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Silveria became the first general officer in the Department of Defense to qualify in the fifth generation fighter. He completed his training with back-to-back flights and hot pit refueling.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, embarked aboard the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), flies in formation with a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 above the Pacific Ocean, June 15, 2022, after participating in a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

220401-N-XN177-1157 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 1, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 launches from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 1. VMFA-211 is embarked aboard Tripoli as part of the U.S. Marine Corps Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing carrier platforms, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required.

An F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, flies from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, August 2, 2022. During the last three months, Air National Guard Airmen not only provided mission support to NATO, but had opportunities to advance partnerships and integrate with the U.S. Allies and partners throughout Europe.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, taxi before take-off during Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 26, 2022. This marks the first time USAFE based F-35s have attended TLP, showcasing the capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter to NATO allies.

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England refuels a U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor aircraft assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, over Poland, Aug. 10, 2022. The 100th ARW provides the critical air refueling bridge that enables strategic assets to operate in forward locations, and postures NATO forces to extend global reach and amplify operational capability throughout Europe.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 returns from a flight during Exercise Resolute Dragon 22 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 13, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

F-22 Raptor US Air Force

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, hovers over the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean, Jan. 5, 2024. The 15th MEU is currently embarked aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua "Cabo" Gunderson, commander of the Air Combat Command F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team from Langley Air Force Base, Hampton, Va., performs during the Arctic Thunder Open House at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 30, 2022. The team flies at airshows around the globe, performing maneuvers that demonstrate the capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

A U.S. Air Force maintainer assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron conducts pre-flight inspections on an F-22 Raptor, Oct. 17, 2022 at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands. The 90th EFS conducted agile combat employment (ACE) and integrated with Royal Netherlands Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs and U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing in RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. Continued collaboration and integration on ACE alongside our RNLAF counterparts and other NATO Allies improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, flies during Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 26, 2022. This marks the first time USAFE based F-35s have attended TLP, showcasing the capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter to NATO allies.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron taxis ahead of a training mission, while a Hellenic Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon takes off, during exercise Poseidons Rage 22, at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 11, 2022. PR22 is designed to bolster readiness and interoperability between the USAF and HAF by demonstrating localized air superiority through the incorporation of both live and inert munitions.

An F-35A, left, assigned to 421st Fighter Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, prepares to take off for a mission during Red Flag-Nellis 24-1, Jan. 17, 2024. These exercises build partnerships and interoperability among our allies and across domains To date, more than 30 allies and coalition countries have participated in Red Flag-Nellis exercises.

240123-N-MH057-1000 EL CENTRO, Calif. (Jan 23, 2024) Cmdr. Alex Armatas, commanding officer and flight leader of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, prepares for takeoff prior to a training flight over Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro.

041103-F-5494H-003. Base: Holloman Air Force Base State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A Royal Air Force pilot and crew chief assigned to RAF Marham prepare for operations during Point Blank 22-3 at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, June 23, 2022. Point Blank is a recurring joint training exercise designed to enhance tactical proficiency and interoperability with NATO allies and partners.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Isaiah Maez, an F-35B Lighting II aircraft mechanic, directs an F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Nov. 17, 2022. U.S. Marines with VMFA-242 conduct routine flight operations to increase proficiency and enhance squadrons combat readiness to ensure regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing flies over Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, in support of Polar Force 22-4, March 30, 2022. This is the first Polar Force to be led by the 3rd Wing, with the primary focus on developing Agile Combat Employment and the U.S. Pacific Air Forces ability to fight in a contested, anti-access area denial environment. Operationalizing readiness-enhancing concepts like ACE is critical to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron (EFS) performs final inspections as the F-22 Raptor prepares for take-off at Łask Air Base, Poland, Aug. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed to Łask Air Base, Poland to bolster NATOs collective defense posture through the Air Shielding mission.

Crew chiefs assigned to the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron prep a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber for a hot-pit refueled, at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, April 4, 2022. Exercise Agile Tiger promotes resilience, innovation, competitiveness and process improvement, all talents required to address todays complex challenges.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II from the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, lands after a training mission during Northern Lightning at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 15, 2022. Nomads integrated with 4th- and 5th-generation assets from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air National Guard during the tactical-level, joint training exercise replicating todays air battle space.

120418-N-ZZ999-003ATLANTIC TEST RANGE (April 18, 2012) Cmdr. Eric Buus and Marine Corps Lt. Col. Matthew Taylor fly F-35C Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter test aircraft CF-1 and CF-2 on a formation test flight in the Atlantic test range. 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 Naval Air Station Patuxent River prior to delivery to the fleet.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot with the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, takes off during the exercise Northern Lightning at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 15, 2022. Nomads will integrate with 4th- and 5th-generation assets from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air National Guard during the tactical-level, joint training exercise replicating todays air battlespace.

An F-22 Raptor releases a GBU-32 JDAM on a training mission out of Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

220527-XN177-1007 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 27, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 27, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

220610-N-XN177-2179 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 10, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 10, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 is refueled at the fuel pits at Ie Shima Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2022. III Marine Expeditionary Force hosted a media workshop event for Okinawan media representatives to provide a better understanding of what III MEF does in order to enhance relationships with their host nation. The media representatives had the opportunity to fly on military aircraft, observe live-fire ranges, and visit the Jungle Warfare Training Center.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron, prepares to land during exercise Poseidons Rage 22 at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 20, 2022. PR 22 focuses on the partnership between the U.S. and Hellenic Air Forces in order to validate F-35 and F-15E deployment capabilities and is the first iteration to feature the F-35 at Souda AB.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th Air Expeditionary Wing prepares for takeoff at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 8, 2022. The 354th AEW sent equipment and personnel to MCAS Iwakuni to train on agile combat employment tactics, techniques and procedures.

A U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Kyle Tavaska, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron crew chief, talks with an F-22 pilot while conducting post-flight procedures, Sept. 7, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The 90th EFS forward deployed to support NATOs Air Shielding mission.

U.S. Air Force KC-10 Extender flies over the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team during Wings Over Solano at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 15, 2022. The Wings Over Solano open house and air show provided an opportunity for the local community to interact directly with the base and its Airmen and see capabilities on full display at Travis AFB.

A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II with the 419th Fighter Wing, approaches the runway during exercise Sentry Savannah May, 5, 2022, in Savannah, Georgia. Sentry Savannah is a joint total force integrated exercise that showcases the nation's combat aircraft readiness, tests the capabilities of our warfighters in a near-peer environment and trains our next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron returns to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Dec. 5, 2022. The 90th Fighter Squadron was forward-deployed to Poland in support of the NATO Air Shielding mission. The NATO Air Shielding mission provides a near seamless shield from the Baltic to Black Seas, ensuring NATO Allies are better able to safeguard and protect Alliance territory, populations, and forces from air and missile threats.

A U.S. Marine with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares inert ordnance for a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), Jan. 28, 2022 in the Philippine Sea. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of America Expeditionary Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Malik Lewis)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to VMX-1, Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron 1, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona takes off for a mission during Black Flag 22-2, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Sept. 20, 2022. One focus of Black Flag 22-2 was to assess interoperability of Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps aircraft maintainers in consolidated F-35 cross service maintenance and logistics training.

Fighter plane taking off from an aircraft carrier, F/A-18 Hornet, USS George Washington (CVN 73), US Navy

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