Modern Fighter Jets

Dynamic images of advanced U.S. military fighter jets, including F-35 and F-22, in action at air bases, showcasing modern aviation technology and readiness.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning nose detail.

A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II pilot with the 419th Fighter Wing taxis on the flight line of the Air Dominance Center, a Combat Readiness Training Center, May 3, 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.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning nose detail.

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. The F-22 increases lethality against all advanced air threats by minimizing enemy capabilities to track and engage with the jet due to its stealth, integrated avionics, and supercruise characteristics. The F-22s characteristics provide synergistic effects, increasing lethality against all advanced air threats.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II prepares for takeoff at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, September 22, 2022. The F-35 squadron from Luke Air Force Base, AZ used Mountain Home AFB for the terrain and airspace in order to practice simulated combat scenarios.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Averi Burke, left, a native of Washington and a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic, and Maj. Carlo Bonci, a native of Massachusetts and an F-35B Lightning II jet pilot, both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542, conduct preflight checks in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24 in Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Exercise Nordic Response 24 is VMFA-542's first overseas operational exercise as an F-35B Lightning II jet squadron. Marine Corps

An F-22 Raptor takes off for an exercise sortie June 10, 2014, in support of Cope Taufan 14 at Royal Malaysian air force P.U. Butterworth, Malaysia. Cope Taufan is a biennial large force employment exercise taking place June 9 to 20. This marks the F-22's first deployment to Southeast Asia. The F-22 is from the 154th Wing, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter jet assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis on the flightline at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 11, 2022. The 354th Air Expeditionary Wing sent 18 F-35s and a team of associated personnel to Iwakuni to train on agile combat employment tactics, techniques and procedures.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, taxis on the flight line during Weapons System Evaluation Program-East 22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 16, 2022. WSEP-E 22.12 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.

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.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 taxis during field carrier landing practice (FCLP) 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.

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.

F-35A Lightning IIs, perform an aerial refueling mission with a KC-135 Stratotanker May 13, 2013, off the coast of northwest Florida. The 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., is a joint graduate flying and maintenance training wing that trains Air Force, Marine, Navy and international partner operators and maintainers of the F-35 Lightning II. The F-35As are assigned to the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd FW. The KC-135 is assigned to from the 336th Air Refueling Squadron from March ARB, Calif.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matthew CardosoAguilera, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), from Los Angeles, California, conducts a preflight check on an F-35B Lightning II during Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 2-22, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, on April 15, 2022.  WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1, providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

A pilot with the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, returns to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 30, 2022. Leadership with the 33rd FW directed the repositioning of aircraft to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, to prepare for possible damaging winds caused by Hurricane Ian.

British Royal Navy Lt. Chris Avison, an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, taxis an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana, Oct. 24, 2022. VMFAT-501 deployed to NAS JRB New Orleans to increase entry-level pilots' proficiency in offensive-air support, electronic warfare, and routine flight operations for their future fleet assignments. VMFAT-501 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

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 at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 15, 2022. Nomads with the 33rd FW traveled to Volk Field to participate in exercise Northern Lightning, a joint training exercise emphasizing user-defined objectives resulting in tailored, scenario-based, full-spectrum, high-end training.

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U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John MacRae, the 134th Fighter Squadron Commander at the 158th Fighter Wing, taxis an F-35A Lighting II at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, Oct. 16, 2022. During this sortie, MaCrae reached over 1,000 hours piloting F-35's, an incredible milestone which is a testament to his experience and expertise piloting the Air Forces newest 5th generation fighter aircraft.

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

A 325th Fighter Wing F-22 Raptor sits on the flightline as storm clouds approach July 21 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The fighter was used for the 43rd Fighter Generation Squadrons weapons load competition that same day. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 arrive aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), while underway, May 23, 2022. Marines with VMFA-121, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, are conducting flight operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, prepares for a night flying training mission in an F-35A Lightning II, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 19, 2022. Night flying is performed monthly to ensure pilots are proficient in every capability of the F-35A.

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- An F-22 Raptor takes flight, Sept. 21, 2011 on a training sortie. Four Raptors were launched as Hollomans premiere aircraft return to the sky. The return to flight of the F-22 ensures air dominance for combatant commanders around the world.

A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing, Eielson Air Base, Alaska, departs after receiving 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 F-35 is the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world.

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- An F-22 Raptor awaits release from the end of the runway, Sept. 21, 2011, to taxi out for a flight. Four Raptors were launched as Hollomans premiere aircraft return to the sky. An expedient and safe return-to-fly ensures F-22 crews will return to combat mission readiness for the F-22.

221013-N-XN177-2135 PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 13, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) taxis on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 13, 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.

An F-35A Lightning II with the 421st Fighter Squadron takes off during Exercise Agile Tiger, April 4, 2022, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. An adaptable and prepared force is required to credibly deter adversaries, assure allies and partners, hedge against uncertain threats, and achieve U.S. objectives should deterrence fail.

220830-N-XN177-2038 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 30, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) launches from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 30, 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.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua Cabo Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, arrives at the 2022 FIDAE Air & Trade Show, April 2, 2022, in Santiago, Chile. Gunderson was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, where he grew up learning to speak both Spanish and English fluently.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, prepares to refuel over the Pacific Ocean, June 29, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation fighter aircraft that increases the efficiency of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor from the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron arrived at Ørland Main Air Station, Norway to conduct an agile combat employment (ACE) exercise with the Royal Norwegian Air Force, Sept. 13, 2022. Executing ACE alongside Allies and partners allows the U.S. Air Force to enhance partner force interoperability and increase domain awareness and survivability in an ever-evolving threat environment.

220624-N-XN177-2232 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 24, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 24, 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. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the Virginia Air National Guard lines up behind a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the Kansas Air National Guard for in-fight refueling over the Atlantic Ocean during Sentry Savannah 22-1, May 3, 2022. Sentry Savannah is a joint, total force integrated exercise that showcases the nation's combat aircraft readiness, tests the capabilities of warfighters in a near-peer environment and trains the next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft assigned to the 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 6, 2022. The 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and 356th EFS deployed 18 F-35As along with pilots and support personnel to MCAS Iwakuni to train on agile combat employment tactics, techniques and procedures.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua Cabo Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, performs during the Orlando Air and Space Show at the Orlando Sanford International Airport, Florida, Oct. 30, 2022. The F-22s raw power and thrust vectoring technology gives the aircraft super maneuverability in the air-to-air battlespace.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft flies in formation during exercise Pitch Black 22 near Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 25, 2022. Exercise Pitch Black is the Royal Australian Air Forces largest and most complex Large Force Employment exercise. Pitch Black 2022 is being conducted at RAAF Bases Darwin, Tindal, and Amberley from 19 August to 8 September 2022. This Years exercise will host up to 2500 personnel and around 100 aircraft from 17 participating nations from around the globe.Activities such as Exercise Pitch Black recognize Australias strong relationships and the high value we place on regional security and fostering closer ties throughout the Indo-Pacific region.Exercise Pitch Black features a range of realistic, simulated threats which can be found in a modern battle-space environment and is an opportunity to test and improve our force integration utilizing one of the largest training air space areas in the world. Exercise Pitch Bla

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II with Luke Air Force base waits to be refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 161st Air Refueling Wing during a local sortie on Aug. 6, 2022. The 161st out of Goldwater Air National Guard Base, conducts regular air refueling missions with their regional partners at Luke Air Force Base.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 launches from the flight deck of the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during Valiant Shield 2022 (VS22), June 14, 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.

U.S. Air Force crew chiefs with the 192nd Fighter Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, remove chalks from a F-22 Raptor prior to launch May 3, 2022, at the Air Dominance Center, Combat Readiness Training. Center, 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.

An F-22 Raptor, piloted by Col. Phillip L. Mallory, inbound commander of the 154th Wing, taxis down the flightline Sept. 7, 2022, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Mallory took part in an in-flight change of command ceremony during a routine training sortie. Before assuming command of the Air National Guard's largest wing, Mallory most recently served as the 154th Wing vice commander, the 154th Operations Group commander, and the 298th Air Defense Group commander.

U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning IIs from the 356th Fighter Squadron at Eielson Air Force Base fly side by side with Republic of Korea Air Force F-35s from the 151st and 152nd Combat Flight Squadrons as part of a bilateral exercise over the Yellow Sea, Republic of Korea, July 12, 2022. Fight Tonight readiness highlights the security and stability across the Korean peninsula and remains the number one priority for United States Forces Korea.

A crew chief assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing, preps an F-35A Lightning II fifth generation aircraft assigned to the wing at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, May 2, 2022. The aircraft departed to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, to continue NATOs Enhanced Air Policing mission along the Eastern Flank.

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 F-22 Raptors, 49th Fighter Wing, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., taxi out to the runway for a training mission over the Nevada Test and Training Range during Red Flag 11-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., March 1, 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.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Benjamin Tennyson, an F-35A dedicated crew chief with the 58th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, prepares to launch an aircraft at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 12, 2022. Nomads with the 33rd FW traveled to Volk Field to participate in exercise Northern Lightning to enhance the Agile Combat Employment concept and to help build combat-credible Airmen.

220408-N-CZ759-1169 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 8, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 taxies on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 8. Tripoli is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

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U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxi on the runway at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 5, 2022. The 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and 356th EFS deployed 18 F-35As along with pilots and support personnel to MCAS Iwakuni to train on agile combat employment tactics, techniques and procedures.

220724-N-MM912-1132 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 24, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

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.

A F-16D Fighting Falcon assigned to Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., sits on an alert mission during EXERCISE BAMBOO EAGLE 24-1 Feb. 1, 2024, at March Air Reserve Base, California. Bamboo Eagle is an exercise designed to provide an expeditionary air base environment where allied forces focused on Agile Combat Employment command and control, Air Superiority, and Joint War at Sea. Air Force

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, super-cruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in war-fighting 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.

An F-35A Lightning from 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, flies alongside a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 350th Air Refueling Wing, McConnell AFB, Kansas Aug. 23, 2022, over Michigan. The F-35 flies in a formation while waiting for his wingman to finish being refueled by the KC-135.

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, fly near Guam, Feb. 16, 2010.

220801-N-VJ326-2278 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 1, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) lands on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), August 1, 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.

EAST CHINA SEA (January 17, 2024) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6) taxi an F-35B Lightning II aircraft from the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, for take-off, while sailing in the East China Sea, January 17. 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.

Two F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 315th Fighter Squadron taxi at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, June 3, 2022. Airmen from the Vermont Air National Guard's 158th Fighter Wing are deployed to Spangdahlem in support of NATO's air policing mission.

A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II from the 52nd Fighter Squadron flies behind a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 197th Air Refueling Squadron during a training mission above Arizona, Aug. 6, 2022. The 161st Air Refueling Wing out of the Goldwater Air National Guard Base, conducts refueling missions with their regional partners at Luke Air Force Base regularly to help ensure mission readiness.

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 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. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Averi Burke, left, a native of Washington and a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic, and Maj. Carlo Bonci, a native of Massachusetts and an F-35B Lightning II jet pilot, both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542, conduct preflight checks in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24 in Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Exercise Nordic Response 24 is VMFA-542's first overseas operational exercise as an F-35B Lightning II jet squadron. Marine Corps

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Herbert Tunley III, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic, signals to Maj. Douglas Kansier, F-35B Lightning II aircraft pilot and executive officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 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.

Airmen assigned to the 43d Fighter Generation Squadron, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, remove a panel on an F-22 Raptor in preparation to perform gear swings 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.

Two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron, 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, photographed from a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, currently operating out of Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, conducted low approach flyovers over the Baltic Sea region on, June 16, 2022. The two fighter jets are flying across the Baltic Sea region starting at Pirita Tee, Estonia, then Riga, Latvia, and finally Vilnius, Lithuania to demonstrate U.S. commitment and assurance to NATO Baltic Allies and partners.

A U.S. Air Force pilot guides his F-22 Raptor to a parking spot on the flight line of the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., April 21, 2022. The two-ship Raptor Demonstration Teamwill be among the highlights of this years Thunder Over Louisville air show, to be held on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Louisville on April 23. The event, which celebrates the 75th anniversary of the United States Air Force, is slated to feature more than 30 military and civilian aircraft, including the B-2 Spirit, C-17 Globemaster III, CV-22 Osprey, CH-53 Sea Stallion, F-16 Viper and UH-60 Blackhawk, in addition to eight historic warbirds like the B-24 Liberator, B-29 Superfortress and P-51 Mustang.

Lt. Col. Benjamin Bishop completes preflight checks before his first sortie in an F-35A Lightning II, March 6, 2013, at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Bishop is among the first pilots to begin the official training that began in January. Bishop and other 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron pilots will begin operational testing of the joint strike fighter later this year at Nellis AFB, Nev. Bishop is the 422nd TES director of operations.

Lt. Col. George Watkins, the 34th Fighter Squadron commander, flies a combat-coded F-35A Lightning II aircraft past the control tower at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Sept. 17, 2015. During the sortie, the bases first, Watkins conducted mission qualification training focusing on weapons employment, range familiarization and mission system proficiency.

A 325th Fighter Wing F-22A Raptor takes off for a mission 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.

A 67th Aircraft Maintenance Unit avionics system journeyman marshals a U.S. Air Force F-22A Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing during a capabilities demonstration on Kadena Air Base, Japan, Nov. 22, 2022. Kadenas ability to rapidly generate U.S. airpower is a vital function of its mission to ensure the stability and security of the Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor performs maneuvers during The Great Texas Airshow, Apr. 22, 2022, at JBSA-Randolph, Texas. The Great Texas Airshow, featuring the Thunderbirds, is scheduled for April 23 thru 24 at JBSA-Randolph. The Thunderbirds perform for people all around the world to display the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to excite and inspire. In addition to showcasing the elite skills all pilots must possess, the Thunderbirds demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the Air Force's premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

111015-N-UM734-932ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 15, 2011) An aviation boatswains mate maneuvers BF-04, front, the U.S. Marine Corps variant of the F-35B Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter, after a vertical landing aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). BF-02, the second F-35B Lighting II undergoing sea trials aboard Wasp, is in the background approaching for a landing. The F-35B is capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings for use on amphibious ships or expeditionary airfields to provide air power to the Marine Air Ground Task Force.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron taxis after returning from a training mission during exercise Poseidon's Rage 22, at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 11, 2022. PR22 marks the first concurrent deployment of fourth and fifth-generation fighter squadrons by U.S. Air Forces in Europe to the same forward operating location, showcasing the ability to conduct large force employment exercises and strengthening the NATO alliance.

A F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing takes off in participation of RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 29, 2022. RF-A exercises are focused on improving the combat readiness of U.S. and international forces and providing training for units preparing for air and space expeditionary force tasking.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Devin Holt, left, a native of South Carolina and a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic, and Maj. Carlo Bonci, a native of Massachusetts and an F-35B Lightning II jet pilot, both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542, conduct preflight checks in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24 in Norway, Feb. 22, 2024. Exercise Nordic Response, formerly known as Cold Response, is a NATO training event conducted every two years to promote military competency in arctic environments and to foster interoperability between the U.S. Marine Corps and allied nations. Exercise Nordic Response 24 is VMFA-542's first overseas operational exercise as an F-35B Lightning II jet squadron. Marine Corps

A Royal Australian Air Force F-35A taxis out for a Red Flag-Nellis 24-1 mission 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. To date, more than 30 allies and coalition countries have participated in Red Flag-Nellis exercises.

An F-16C Fighting Falcon Block 52 aircraft from the 157th Fighter Squadron, 169th Fighter Wing, South Carolina Air National Guard, in flight. The aircraft is armed with AIM-120 AMRAAM's (advanced medium-range air-to-air missile). Country: Unknown

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, prepares to refuel over the Pacific Ocean, June 29, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation fighter that combines stealth, supercruise, maneuverability and integrated avionics.

220820-N-XN177-1209 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) flies over amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 20, 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.

UNITED KINGDOM (May 2, 2021) A U.S. Marine assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, attached to Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 21, conducts carrier qualifications in an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter aboard the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) off the coast of the United Kingdom, May 2, 2021. Alongside the UK's 617 Squadron, VMFA-211 will form part of the largest carrier air group in the world. This deployment highlights the global reach of the U.S. and UK armed forces and their interoperability, and enhances the deterrence and defense capabilities of the NATO Alliance.

220629-N-XN177-2025 EAST CHINA SEA (June 29, 2022) - F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 sit on the flight deck during night flight operations aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 29, 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.

220330-N-XN177-1218 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 30, 2022) -- An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225 takes off from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), March 30. VMFA 225 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 arrives at Edwards Air Force Base, California, Aug. 1. The aircraft, Air Force serial number 338, is the first of six F-35s the 461st Flight Test Squadron and F-35 Lightning II Integrated Test Force will receive in the next few years. The upgraded fleet will be used to test the Technical Refresh 3 and Block 4 configurations of the Air Forces newest fighter that will create tactical and operational advantages over peer competitors. (Air Force photo by Chase Kohler)

July 16, 2010 - An F-22 Raptor aircraft peels away to land while an F-15 Eagle flies the approach at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. The aircraft are from the U.S. Air Force Weapons School. The Weapons School teaches graduate-level instructor courses that provide advanced training in weapons and tactics employment.

Nomads with the 58th Fighter Squadron and 60th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, prepare to take off for Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, from Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 27, 2022. Leadership with the 33rd FW directed the repositioning of aircraft to Barksdale AFB, to prepare for possible damaging winds caused by Hurricane Ian.

220523-N-XN177-1214 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 23, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to land on the flight deck 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 F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron taxis after landing at RAF Lakenheath, England, Jan. 3, 2024. The 48th Fighter Wing conducts routine training sorties to ensure that pilots and aircraft remain ready to meet mission requirements.

Crew chiefs assigned to the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron prep a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber for a hot-pit refuel, 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.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Aaron Jacobs, a crew chief assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron, marshals an F-35A Lightning II ahead of a training mission during exercise Poseidons Rage 22, at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 11, 2022. PR22 marks the first concurrent deployment of fourth and fifth-generation fighter squadrons by U.S. Air Forces in Europe to the same forward operating location, showcasing the ability to conduct large force employment exercises and strengthening the NATO alliance.

F-15C Eagles, assigned to the 125th Fighter Wing, Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, Florida, and F-35A Lightning IIs, from Eglin Air Force Base, Florida fly together during a training exercise in Jacksonville on Sept. 10, 2022. This training aides pilot familiarization as the 125th Fighter Wing, Home of the Thunder, prepares for its transition to the F-35A Lightning II from the F-15C Eagles currently flown by the Wing. The first F-35A Lightning II is expected to arrive at the 125th Fighter Wing in 2024.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing takes off from 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. 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.

U.S. Air Force Airman Jay Wilder, a crew chief assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron, salutes a pilot assigned to the 495th FS prior to takeoff during exercise Poseidon's Rage 22, at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 11, 2022. PR22 is designed to bolster readiness and interoperability between the U.S. and Hellenic Air Forces by demonstrating localized air superiority.

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, taxi on the flight line during Weapons System Evaluation Program-East 22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 16, 2022. WSEP-E 22.12 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.

Airman 1st Class Holden Coladonato from the 90th Fighter Squadron, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, prepares a F-22 Raptor for take off during exercise Northern Edge 2009, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, June 17, 2009. Northern Edge 2009 is Alaska's largest military training exercise. It prepares joint forces to respond to crises throughout the Asia-Pacific region. (Released/

220708-N-EI127-3150PACIFIC OCEAN (July 8, 2022) - An F-35 Lighting II, assigned to the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to take off of the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), July 8. Makin Island has the ability to embark and support all Marine aviation assets including the MV-22 Osprey and the F-35B Lightning II. Makin Island is currently underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to Joint-Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, takes off during Weapons System Evaluation Program-East 22.08 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, May 17, 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.

U.S. Air Force maintainers assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepare an F-22 Raptor for takeoff, Oct. 18, 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.

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