F-35 Lightning II

Un article de Vev.

Modèle:Infobox Aircraft

www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-int.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II – International Partners], GlobalSecurity.org</ref> It is being designed and built by an aerospace industry team led by Lockheed Martin with Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems as major partners.<ref name="glob_sec_F-35" /> Demonstrator aircraft flew in 2000;<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=12246&rsbci=0&fti=112&ti=0&sc=400 Lockheed Martin statement]</ref> a production model first took flight on 15 December 2006.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=2731034 "F-35 Test Flight Deemed a Success"], ABC News, 16 December 2006</ref> The United States Air Force plans to acquire 1,763 aircraft.<ref>Air Forces Monthly, October 2007 edition.</ref>//www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-int.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II – International Partners], GlobalSecurity.org</ref> It is being designed and built by an aerospace industry team led by Lockheed Martin with Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems as major partners.<ref name="glob_sec_F-35" /> Demonstrator aircraft flew in 2000;<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=12246&rsbci=0&fti=112&ti=0&sc=400 Lockheed Martin statement]</ref> a production model first took flight on 15 December 2006.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=2731034 "F-35 Test Flight Deemed a Success"], ABC News, 16 December 2006</ref> The United States Air Force plans to acquire 1,763 aircraft.<ref>Air Forces Monthly, October 2007 edition.</ref>

Development

JSF Program history

Main article: Joint Strike Fighter Program

Requirement

The JSF program was created to replace various aircraft while keeping development, production, and operating costs down. This was pursued by building three variants of one aircraft, sharing 80% of their parts:

• F-35A, conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant.
• F-35B, short-takeoff and vertical-landing (STOVL) variant.
• F-35C, carrier-based (CV) variant.

www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II], GlobalSecurity.org.</ref>//www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II], GlobalSecurity.org.</ref>

Origins and X-32 vs. X-35

The Joint Strike Fighter evolved out of several requirements for a common fighter to replace existing types. The actual JSF development contract was signed on 16 November 1996.

www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/nonstandard-mds.html#_MDS_F35 Designation Systems]</ref>//www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/nonstandard-mds.html#_MDS_F35 Designation Systems]</ref>

Naming

www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/JSF_F-35_2006_Inauguration%20Press%20Release.doc Lockheed Martin Joint Strike Fighter Officially Named 'Lightning II.']" Official Joint Strike Fighter program office press release. 7 July 2006.</ref> in honor of Lockheed's World War II-era twin-prop P-38 Lightning and the Cold War-era jet, the English Electric Lightning. English Electric's aircraft division was incorporated into BAC, a predecessor of F-35 partner BAE Systems. Other names previously listed as contenders were Kestrel, Phoenix, Piasa, Black Mamba and Spitfire II. Lightning II was also an early company name for the aircraft that became the F-22 Raptor.//www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/JSF_F-35_2006_Inauguration%20Press%20Release.doc Lockheed Martin Joint Strike Fighter Officially Named 'Lightning II.']" Official Joint Strike Fighter program office press release. 7 July 2006.</ref> in honor of Lockheed's World War II-era twin-prop P-38 Lightning and the Cold War-era jet, the English Electric Lightning. English Electric's aircraft division was incorporated into BAC, a predecessor of F-35 partner BAE Systems. Other names previously listed as contenders were Kestrel, Phoenix, Piasa, Black Mamba and Spitfire II. Lightning II was also an early company name for the aircraft that became the F-22 Raptor.

Design

The F-35 appears to be a smaller, slightly more conventional, one-engine sibling of the sleeker, two-engine F-22 Raptor, and indeed, drew elements from it. The exhaust duct design was inspired by the General Dynamics Model 200, a 1972 VTOL aircraft designed for the Sea Control Ship.<ref>"Vertiflight." Journal of the American Helicopter Society Jan. 2004.</ref>

www.aeroflight.co.uk/types/russia/yakovlev/yak-41/yak-41.htm "Yakovlev Yak-41 'Freestyle'".] Aeroflight, 28 March 2005. Retrieved: 6 August 2006.</ref>//www.aeroflight.co.uk/types/russia/yakovlev/yak-41/yak-41.htm "Yakovlev Yak-41 'Freestyle'".] Aeroflight, 28 March 2005. Retrieved: 6 August 2006.</ref>

Stealth technology makes the aircraft hard to detect as it approaches short-range tracking radar.

Some improvements over current-generation fighter aircraft are:

• Durable, low-maintenance stealth technology;
• Integrated avionics and sensor fusion that combine information from off- and onboard sensors to increase the pilot's situational awareness and improve identification and weapon delivery, and to relay information quickly to other command and control (C2) nodes;

www.aviationtoday.com/av/categories/military/11667.html "Reducing Risk on the Joint Strike Fighter."] Avionics Magazine. Retrieved: 8 July 2007.</ref>//www.aviationtoday.com/av/categories/military/11667.html "Reducing Risk on the Joint Strike Fighter."] Avionics Magazine. Retrieved: 8 July 2007.</ref>

• Low life-cycle costs.^{[citation needed]}

Cockpit

www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123071861 "Researchers fine-tune F-35 pilot-aircraft speech system], af.mil 10 October 2007.</ref> The system is integrated by Adacel Systems Inc with the speech recognition module supplied by SRI International <ref> www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.technologynewsdaily.com/node/8242] </ref>//www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123071861 "Researchers fine-tune F-35 pilot-aircraft speech system], af.mil 10 October 2007.</ref> The system is integrated by Adacel Systems Inc with the speech recognition module supplied by SRI International <ref> www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.technologynewsdaily.com/node/8242] </ref>

web.archive.org/web/20060213180925/http://www.dcmilitary.com/navy/tester/11_02/national_news/39041-1.html "Chief test pilot gives brief on F-35."] dcmilitary.com, 2001. Retrieved: 10 April 2006.</ref>//web.archive.org/web/20060213180925/http://www.dcmilitary.com/navy/tester/11_02/national_news/39041-1.html "Chief test pilot gives brief on F-35."] dcmilitary.com, 2001. Retrieved: 10 April 2006.</ref>

Sensors

www.es.northropgrumman.com/ASD/combat/APG-81.html |title=APG-81 (F-35 Lightning II) |accessdate=2007-08-04 |author=Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems}}</ref> It is augmented by the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) mounted under the nose of the aircraft, designed by Lockheed Martin and BAE.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=13751 Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control: Joint Strike Fighter Electro-Optical Targeting System] Retrieved: 4 August 2007.</ref> Further electro-optical sensors are distributed over the aircraft as part of the AN/AAS-37 system which acts as missile warning system and can aid in navigation and night operations.//www.es.northropgrumman.com/ASD/combat/APG-81.html |title=APG-81 (F-35 Lightning II) |accessdate=2007-08-04 |author=Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems}}</ref> It is augmented by the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) mounted under the nose of the aircraft, designed by Lockheed Martin and BAE.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=13751 Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control: Joint Strike Fighter Electro-Optical Targeting System] Retrieved: 4 August 2007.</ref> Further electro-optical sensors are distributed over the aircraft as part of the AN/AAS-37 system which acts as missile warning system and can aid in navigation and night operations.

Thrust-to-weight ratio

www.aviationnow.com/avnow/news/channel_awst_story.jsp?id=news/09204wna.xml "USAF Plans for Fighters Change." Aviation Week and Space Technology, 19 September 2004] Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref>//www.aviationnow.com/avnow/news/channel_awst_story.jsp?id=news/09204wna.xml "USAF Plans for Fighters Change." Aviation Week and Space Technology, 19 September 2004] Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref>

Manufacturing responsibilities

www.aviationnow.com/avnow/search/autosuggest.jsp?docid=7783&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aviationnow.com%2Favnow%2Fnews%2Fchannel_defense_story.jsp%3Fview%3Dstory%26id%3Dnews%2FJSFM06196.xml Italy Wins JSF Final Assembly; U.K. Presses Maintenance, Support]</ref>//www.aviationnow.com/avnow/search/autosuggest.jsp?docid=7783&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aviationnow.com%2Favnow%2Fnews%2Fchannel_defense_story.jsp%3Fview%3Dstory%26id%3Dnews%2FJSFM06196.xml Italy Wins JSF Final Assembly; U.K. Presses Maintenance, Support]</ref>

Operational history

Testing

www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=17899&rsbci=11173&fti=134&ti=0&sc=400 "Mighty F-35 Lightning 2 Engine Roars To Life."] Lockheed Martin (news release), 22 September 2006.</ref> On 15 December 2006, the F-35 completed its maiden flight.//www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=17899&rsbci=11173&fti=134&ti=0&sc=400 "Mighty F-35 Lightning 2 Engine Roars To Life."] Lockheed Martin (news release), 22 September 2006.</ref> On 15 December 2006, the F-35 completed its maiden flight.

www.defensetech.org/archives/003895.html</ref> It was grounded until December 7th, when Test Pilot Jon Beesley flew a 55 minute test flight.<ref>http://www.defensetech.org/archives/003895.html</ref>//www.defensetech.org/archives/003895.html</ref> It was grounded until December 7th, when Test Pilot Jon Beesley flew a 55 minute test flight.<ref>http://www.defensetech.org/archives/003895.html</ref>

www.niid.nl/file.aspx?i=847//www.niid.nl/file.aspx?i=847 |title=Flying Test-Bed Power Switched On |accessdate=2006-11-20 |format=PDF |work=F-35 JSF Flight Plan }}</ref>

International participation

www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A38236-2005Mar15.html "GAO Questions Cost Of Joint Strike Fighter."] Washington Post, 15 March 2005. Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> The nine major partner nations plan to acquire over 3,100 F-35s through 2035,<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/ANNEX%20A%20Revision_April%202007.pdf Estimated JSF Air Vehicle Procurement Quantities], JSF.mil, April 2007.</ref> making the F-35 one of the most numerous jet fighters.//www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A38236-2005Mar15.html "GAO Questions Cost Of Joint Strike Fighter."] Washington Post, 15 March 2005. Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> The nine major partner nations plan to acquire over 3,100 F-35s through 2035,<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/ANNEX%20A%20Revision_April%202007.pdf Estimated JSF Air Vehicle Procurement Quantities], JSF.mil, April 2007.</ref> making the F-35 one of the most numerous jet fighters.

www.teamjsf.com/jsf/data.nsf/75public/07CF737749FA9E5585256F3900720288?OpenDocument JSF Global Partners.] Retrieved: 30 March 2007.</ref> under the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding that brought the UK into the project.<ref name="UKJAST">"US, UK sign JAST agreement." Aerospace Daily New York: McGraw-Hill, 25 November 1995. p. 451.</ref> Level 2 partners are Italy, which is contributing US$1 billion; and the Netherlands, US$800 million. Level 3 partners are Canada, US$440 million; Turkey, US$175 million; Australia, US$144 million; Norway, US$122 million; and Denmark, US$110 million. Israel and Singapore have joined as Security Cooperative Participants.<ref>Schnasi, Katherine V. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.gao.gov/new.items/d04554.pdf "Joint Strike Fighter Acquisition: Observations on the Supplier Base."] US Accounts Office. Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref>//www.teamjsf.com/jsf/data.nsf/75public/07CF737749FA9E5585256F3900720288?OpenDocument JSF Global Partners.] Retrieved: 30 March 2007.</ref> under the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding that brought the UK into the project.<ref name="UKJAST">"US, UK sign JAST agreement." Aerospace Daily New York: McGraw-Hill, 25 November 1995. p. 451.</ref> Level 2 partners are Italy, which is contributing US$1 billion; and the Netherlands, US$800 million. Level 3 partners are Canada, US$440 million; Turkey, US$175 million; Australia, US$144 million; Norway, US$122 million; and Denmark, US$110 million. Israel and Singapore have joined as Security Cooperative Participants.<ref>Schnasi, Katherine V. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.gao.gov/new.items/d04554.pdf "Joint Strike Fighter Acquisition: Observations on the Supplier Base."] US Accounts Office. Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref>

www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/02/f35-lightning-ii-faces-continued-dogfights-in-norway/index.php F-35 Lightning II Faces Continued Dogfights in Norway]</ref>//www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/02/f35-lightning-ii-faces-continued-dogfights-in-norway/index.php F-35 Lightning II Faces Continued Dogfights in Norway]</ref>

United Kingdom

Main article: Joint Combat Aircraft

The United Kingdom plans to acquire versions of the F-35 for its Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy.

www.ft.com/cms/s/881df2c4-5b7f-11da-b221-0000779e2340.html "UK denied waiver on US arms technology."] Financial Times. Retrieved: 11 October 2006.</ref>//www.ft.com/cms/s/881df2c4-5b7f-11da-b221-0000779e2340.html "UK denied waiver on US arms technology."] Financial Times. Retrieved: 11 October 2006.</ref>

www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/defence_committee/def051220___no__13.cfm MoD 'slippage' set to leave forces with reduced capability, says committee]. Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref> Lord Drayson, Minister for Defence Procurement, took a firmer stance during a March 2006 visit to Washington: "We do expect the software technology transfer to take place. But if it does not take place we will not be able to purchase these aircraft," and he said there was a 'Plan B' if the deal fell through.<ref>Chapman. Matt. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2152035/joint-strike-fighter "Britain warns US over jet software codes."] vunet.com. Retrieved: 16 March 2006.</ref> This may have been the development of a navalized Typhoon.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmselect/cmdfence/uc824-iii/uc82402.htm Evidence to UK Defence Select Committee]. Retrieved: 1 April 2006.</ref>//www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_committees/defence_committee/def051220___no__13.cfm MoD 'slippage' set to leave forces with reduced capability, says committee]. Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref> Lord Drayson, Minister for Defence Procurement, took a firmer stance during a March 2006 visit to Washington: "We do expect the software technology transfer to take place. But if it does not take place we will not be able to purchase these aircraft," and he said there was a 'Plan B' if the deal fell through.<ref>Chapman. Matt. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.vnunet.com/vnunet/news/2152035/joint-strike-fighter "Britain warns US over jet software codes."] vunet.com. Retrieved: 16 March 2006.</ref> This may have been the development of a navalized Typhoon.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmselect/cmdfence/uc824-iii/uc82402.htm Evidence to UK Defence Select Committee]. Retrieved: 1 April 2006.</ref>

news.ft.com/cms/s/7de7925a-ecf3-11da-a307-0000779e2340.html "Bush gives way over stealth fighter."] Financial Times. Retrieved: 27 May 2006.</ref> Despite this, concerns were still expressed about the lack of technology transfer as late as December 2006. Nevertheless, on 12 December 2006, Lord Drayson signed an agreement which met the UK's demands for further participation, i.e., access to software source codes and operational sovereignty. The agreement allows "an unbroken British chain of command" for operation of the aircraft. Drayson said Britain would "not be required to have a US citizen in our own operational chain of command".<ref>"Update 2 — UK signs memo with US on Joint Strike Fighter." Reuters, 12 December 2006. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSL1278309720061212 Reuters UK Joint Strike Fighter]. Retrieved: 13 December 2006.</ref> Drayson also said, however, that Britain is still considering an unspecified "Plan B" alternative to buying the Joint Strike Fighter.//news.ft.com/cms/s/7de7925a-ecf3-11da-a307-0000779e2340.html "Bush gives way over stealth fighter."] Financial Times. Retrieved: 27 May 2006.</ref> Despite this, concerns were still expressed about the lack of technology transfer as late as December 2006. Nevertheless, on 12 December 2006, Lord Drayson signed an agreement which met the UK's demands for further participation, i.e., access to software source codes and operational sovereignty. The agreement allows "an unbroken British chain of command" for operation of the aircraft. Drayson said Britain would "not be required to have a US citizen in our own operational chain of command".<ref>"Update 2 — UK signs memo with US on Joint Strike Fighter." Reuters, 12 December 2006. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSL1278309720061212 Reuters UK Joint Strike Fighter]. Retrieved: 13 December 2006.</ref> Drayson also said, however, that Britain is still considering an unspecified "Plan B" alternative to buying the Joint Strike Fighter.

news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/6914788.stm "MoD confirms £3.8bn carrier order."] news.bbc.co.uk.</ref>//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/6914788.stm "MoD confirms £3.8bn carrier order."] news.bbc.co.uk.</ref>

Italy

Italy plans to acquire 109 F-35As for the Italian Air Force, and 22 F-35Bs for the Marina Militare (Italian Navy) to be used on the STOVL aircraft carrier Cavour.^{[citation needed]}

Netherlands

www.rekenkamer.nl/9282000/d/p396_rapport.pdf "Stand van zaken september 2006, Monitoring verwerving Joint Strike Fighter"], Algemene Rekenkamer, p. 22. 2006, October.</ref> Monday 19 November 2007, in the Dutch parliament the Secretary of Defence was questioned about the JSF delay, technical problems and rising costs. <ref>http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/f-35-jsf-hit-by-serious-design-problems-04311/ F-35 JSF Hit by Serious Design Problems</ref>//www.rekenkamer.nl/9282000/d/p396_rapport.pdf "Stand van zaken september 2006, Monitoring verwerving Joint Strike Fighter"], Algemene Rekenkamer, p. 22. 2006, October.</ref> Monday 19 November 2007, in the Dutch parliament the Secretary of Defence was questioned about the JSF delay, technical problems and rising costs. <ref>http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/f-35-jsf-hit-by-serious-design-problems-04311/ F-35 JSF Hit by Serious Design Problems</ref>

Australia

www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=6341 Press release] Retrieved: 1 February 2007.</ref>//www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=6341 Press release] Retrieved: 1 February 2007.</ref>

www.ausairpower.net Air Power Australia web site] although the F-22 is not for sale internationally.</ref> -- claims that as of July 2006 are being examined in a parliamentary inquiry.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/jfadt/adfair/subs.htm Inquiry into Australian Defence Force Regional Air Superiority], Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade, Australian Parliament</ref>//www.ausairpower.net Air Power Australia web site] although the F-22 is not for sale internationally.</ref> -- claims that as of July 2006 are being examined in a parliamentary inquiry.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/jfadt/adfair/subs.htm Inquiry into Australian Defence Force Regional Air Superiority], Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade, Australian Parliament</ref>

www.theage.com.au/news/National/US-decisions-threaten-fighter-project/2006/08/04/1154198330441.html "US decisions 'threaten' fighter project."] The Age, 4 August 2006. Retrieved: 19 August 2006.</ref> In October 2006 the deputy chief of the Air Force, Air Vice Marshal John Blackburn, publicly stated that the RAAF had ruled out the purchase of interim strike aircraft to cover any delays to the F-35 program and believed that the F-35 was suitable.<ref>Blenkin, Max. "RAAF 'won't need' interim jet." News.com.au.www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20556293-31037,00.html "RAAF 'won't need' interim jet."] Retrieved: 10 October 2006.</ref> However, on 6 March 2007, Dr. Nelson announced the Australian Government would purchase 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets from Boeing to fill the gap left by the retiring F-111 strike aircraft at a cost of potentially AU$6 billion.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.thanhniennews.com/worlds/?catid=9&newsid=25777 "Australia to buy 24 F-18 Super Hornets from Boeing."] Thanhnien News, 6 March 2007. Retrieved: 6 March 2007.</ref> Nonetheless, Dr. Nelson continued to endorse Australia's purchase of the F-35. Speaking on Australian television in March 2007, Dr. Nelson stated that 5% of the capability of the F-35 is classified, claiming that, "that's the five percent that really counts."<ref>Bartlett, Liam. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//sixtyminutes.ninemsn.com.au/sixtyminutes/stories/2007_03_18/story_1879.asp "Transcript of '60 Minutes' broadcast 'Project Joint Strike Fighter'"] Ninemsn, (18 March 2006). Retrieved: 18 March 2007.</ref>//www.theage.com.au/news/National/US-decisions-threaten-fighter-project/2006/08/04/1154198330441.html "US decisions 'threaten' fighter project."] The Age, 4 August 2006. Retrieved: 19 August 2006.</ref> In October 2006 the deputy chief of the Air Force, Air Vice Marshal John Blackburn, publicly stated that the RAAF had ruled out the purchase of interim strike aircraft to cover any delays to the F-35 program and believed that the F-35 was suitable.<ref>Blenkin, Max. "RAAF 'won't need' interim jet." News.com.au.www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20556293-31037,00.html "RAAF 'won't need' interim jet."] Retrieved: 10 October 2006.</ref> However, on 6 March 2007, Dr. Nelson announced the Australian Government would purchase 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets from Boeing to fill the gap left by the retiring F-111 strike aircraft at a cost of potentially AU$6 billion.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.thanhniennews.com/worlds/?catid=9&newsid=25777 "Australia to buy 24 F-18 Super Hornets from Boeing."] Thanhnien News, 6 March 2007. Retrieved: 6 March 2007.</ref> Nonetheless, Dr. Nelson continued to endorse Australia's purchase of the F-35. Speaking on Australian television in March 2007, Dr. Nelson stated that 5% of the capability of the F-35 is classified, claiming that, "that's the five percent that really counts."<ref>Bartlett, Liam. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//sixtyminutes.ninemsn.com.au/sixtyminutes/stories/2007_03_18/story_1879.asp "Transcript of '60 Minutes' broadcast 'Project Joint Strike Fighter'"] Ninemsn, (18 March 2006). Retrieved: 18 March 2007.</ref>

www.theage.com.au/news/WORLD/Australia-commits-to-F35-strike-fighter/2006/12/13/1165685710399.html "Australia commits to F-35 strike fighter."] The Age, 13 December 2006.</ref> Australia is expected to purchase 100 F-35As at a cost of approximately AU$16 billion.<ref>Elliot, Geoff. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20943857-31477,00.html "Troubled stealth fighter tackles first test flight."] The Australian, 18 December 2006.</ref>//www.theage.com.au/news/WORLD/Australia-commits-to-F35-strike-fighter/2006/12/13/1165685710399.html "Australia commits to F-35 strike fighter."] The Age, 13 December 2006.</ref> Australia is expected to purchase 100 F-35As at a cost of approximately AU$16 billion.<ref>Elliot, Geoff. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20943857-31477,00.html "Troubled stealth fighter tackles first test flight."] The Australian, 18 December 2006.</ref>

Turkey

www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/01/turkey-signs-f35-production-mou/index.php Turkey Signs F-35 Production MoU]</ref> It is reported that the aircraft will be produced under license in Turkey by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).//www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/01/turkey-signs-f35-production-mou/index.php Turkey Signs F-35 Production MoU]</ref> It is reported that the aircraft will be produced under license in Turkey by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

Turkish Production of the F-35

www.tai.com.tr/en_haber_guncel.aspx?id=84]//www.tai.com.tr/en_haber_guncel.aspx?id=84]

live.defenseworld.net:9080/go/defensenews.jsp?catid=1&id=2116]//live.defenseworld.net:9080/go/defensenews.jsp?catid=1&id=2116]

In February 2007, Northrop Grumman also signed a letter of intent with TAI to also make it a second source for producing F-35 center fuselages. Under that agreement, TAI will produce a minimum of 400 center fuselages starting during LRIP-2. Northrop Grumman currently produces all F-35 center fuselages at its F-35 assembly facility in Palmdale, Calif.

It is also anticipated that TAI after 2013 will also produce 100% of the F-35 under licence from Lockheed Martin Corporation, as was also the case with the F-16 Fighting Falcon program Peace Onyx I and II.

Turkey also intends to incorporate in the distant future several Turkish designed and manufactured electronic systems into the F-35 platform.

Canada

www.canada.com/topics/technology/story.html?id=7a365ab7-22b5-4d06-9de7-7a6177af4b62 "Canada’s military eyeing futuristic fighter jets"]</ref>//www.canada.com/topics/technology/story.html?id=7a365ab7-22b5-4d06-9de7-7a6177af4b62 "Canada’s military eyeing futuristic fighter jets"]</ref>

Other nations

www.f-16.net/news_article5.html "Israel inks LOA to join Joint Strike Fighter program"].</ref> The Israeli Air Force (IAF) stated in 2006 that the F-35 is a key part of IAF's recapitalization plans, and that Israel intends to buy over 100 F-35A fighters at an estimated cost of over $5 billion to replace their F-16s over time.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/06/israel-plans-to-buy-over-100-f35s/index.php "Israel Plans to Buy Over 100 F-35s."] DefenseIndustryDaily.com, 27 June 2006.</ref> Israel was temporarily reinstated as a partner in the development of the F-35 on 31 July 2006, after Israeli participation was put on hold following the Chinese arms deal crisis.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1148287839455&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull "Israel, US battling over sale of jets"].</ref>//www.f-16.net/news_article5.html "Israel inks LOA to join Joint Strike Fighter program"].</ref> The Israeli Air Force (IAF) stated in 2006 that the F-35 is a key part of IAF's recapitalization plans, and that Israel intends to buy over 100 F-35A fighters at an estimated cost of over $5 billion to replace their F-16s over time.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/06/israel-plans-to-buy-over-100-f35s/index.php "Israel Plans to Buy Over 100 F-35s."] DefenseIndustryDaily.com, 27 June 2006.</ref> Israel was temporarily reinstated as a partner in the development of the F-35 on 31 July 2006, after Israeli participation was put on hold following the Chinese arms deal crisis.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1148287839455&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull "Israel, US battling over sale of jets"].</ref>

www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1192380645400&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull US to speed up stealth fighter delivery to Israel], Jerusalem Post.</ref> The price of each F-35 is expected to reach $50 million-$60m.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?c=JPArticle&cid=1188392524293&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull IDF chief presents budget and procurement plan], Jerusalem Post.</ref>//www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1192380645400&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull US to speed up stealth fighter delivery to Israel], Jerusalem Post.</ref> The price of each F-35 is expected to reach $50 million-$60m.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?c=JPArticle&cid=1188392524293&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull IDF chief presents budget and procurement plan], Jerusalem Post.</ref>

www.ibnlive.com/news/us-wants-indias-fighter-jet-order-dangles-f35-carrot/45214-3.html "US wants India's fighter jet order, dangles F-35 carrot"].</ref>//www.ibnlive.com/news/us-wants-indias-fighter-jet-order-dangles-f35-carrot/45214-3.html "US wants India's fighter jet order, dangles F-35 carrot"].</ref>

Variants

The F-35 is planned to be built in three different versions to suit the needs of its various users.

F-35A

The F-35A, the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant intended for the US Air Force and other air forces. It is the smallest, lightest F-35 version and is the only variant equipped with an internal gun, the GAU-12/U. This 25 mm cannon, a development of the 20 mm M61 Vulcan carried by USAF fighters since the F-104 Starfighter, is also carried by the USMC's AV-8B Harrier II.

The F-35A not only matches the F-16 in maneuverability, instantaneous and sustained high-g performance, but also outperforms it in stealth, payload, range on internal fuel, avionics, operational effectiveness, supportability and survivability.^{[citation needed]} It also has an internal laser designator and infra-red sensors.

It is primarily intended to replace both the USAF's F-16 Fighting Falcons and A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, beginning in 2011.

F-35B

The F-35B is the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant aircraft. The F-35B is similar in size to the Air Force F-35A, trading fuel volume for vertical flight systems. Like the AV-8 Harrier II, guns will be carried in a ventral pod. Vertical flight is by far the riskiest, and in the end, a decisive factor in design.

www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=14552&rsbci=0&fti=0&ti=0&sc=400 Design News magazine's Engineer of the Year award goes to lift fan inventor at Lockheed Martin]. Lockheed Martin press release 26 February 2004.</ref> Somewhat like a turboprop built within the fuselage, engine shaft power is diverted forward via a clutch-and-bevel gearbox to a vertically mounted, contra-rotating lift fan located forward of the main engine in the center of the aircraft. Bypass air from the cruise engine turbofan exhausts through a pair of roll-post nozzles in the wings on either side of the fuselage, while the lift fan balances the vectoring cruise nozzle at the tail. This system is more similar to the Russian Yak-141 and German VJ 101D/E<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.vstol.org/GermanVSTOLFighters.pdf Swivel nozzle VJ101D and VJ101E, S.27-29]</ref> than previous STOVL designs, such as the Harrier with thrust vectoring.//www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=14552&rsbci=0&fti=0&ti=0&sc=400 Design News magazine's Engineer of the Year award goes to lift fan inventor at Lockheed Martin]. Lockheed Martin press release 26 February 2004.</ref> Somewhat like a turboprop built within the fuselage, engine shaft power is diverted forward via a clutch-and-bevel gearbox to a vertically mounted, contra-rotating lift fan located forward of the main engine in the center of the aircraft. Bypass air from the cruise engine turbofan exhausts through a pair of roll-post nozzles in the wings on either side of the fuselage, while the lift fan balances the vectoring cruise nozzle at the tail. This system is more similar to the Russian Yak-141 and German VJ 101D/E<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.vstol.org/GermanVSTOLFighters.pdf Swivel nozzle VJ101D and VJ101E, S.27-29]</ref> than previous STOVL designs, such as the Harrier with thrust vectoring.

In effect, the F-35B power plant acts as a flow multiplier, much as a turbofan achieves efficiencies by moving unburned air at a lower velocity, and getting the same effect as the Harrier's huge, but supersonically impractical, main fan. Like lift engines, this added machinery is dead weight during flight, but increased lifting power increases takeoff payload by even more. The cool fan exhaust also reduces the harmful effects of hot, high-velocity air which can harm runway pavement or an aircraft carrier deck. Though potentially risky and complicated, it was made to work to the satisfaction of DOD officials.

money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/LATU14218122007-1.htm First Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Stealth Fighter] Retrieved: 18 December 2007.</ref>. The U.S. Marine Corps will use the F-35B to replace both its AV-8B Harrier II and F/A-18 Hornet fighters. The B variant is expected to be available beginning in 2012.//money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/LATU14218122007-1.htm First Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Stealth Fighter] Retrieved: 18 December 2007.</ref>. The U.S. Marine Corps will use the F-35B to replace both its AV-8B Harrier II and F/A-18 Hornet fighters. The B variant is expected to be available beginning in 2012.

F-35C

The F-35C naval variant will have a larger, folding wing and larger control surfaces for improved low-speed control, and stronger landing gear for the stresses of carrier landings. The larger wing area provides increased range and payload, with twice the range on internal fuel compared with the F/A-18C Hornet, achieving much the same goal as the heavier F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35c.htm F-35C Carrier Variant, globalsecurity.org]</ref> On 27 June 2007, the carrier variant completed its Air System Critical Design Review (CDR). This allows the F-35C to go to Low Rate Initial Production.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.defense-aerospace.com/cgi-bin/client/modele.pl?session=dae.27209448.1183042924.pUoNfX8AAAEAAHtZ-zoAAAAH&modele=jdc_34 F-35 Navy Version Undergoes Successful Design Review, Readies for Production] Retrieved: 28 June 2007.</ref>//www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35c.htm F-35C Carrier Variant, globalsecurity.org]</ref> On 27 June 2007, the carrier variant completed its Air System Critical Design Review (CDR). This allows the F-35C to go to Low Rate Initial Production.<ref>www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.defense-aerospace.com/cgi-bin/client/modele.pl?session=dae.27209448.1183042924.pUoNfX8AAAEAAHtZ-zoAAAAH&modele=jdc_34 F-35 Navy Version Undergoes Successful Design Review, Readies for Production] Retrieved: 28 June 2007.</ref>

The C variant is expected to be available beginning in 2012.

Specifications (F-35 Lightning II)

Note: Some information is estimated. Modèle:Aircraft specifications

Armament

• 1 × GAU-12/U 25 mm cannon — slated to be mounted internally with 180 rounds in the F-35A and fitted as an external pod with 220 rounds in the F-35B and F-35C.<ref name="F-35_Stats" />^{[citation needed]}

www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3a4f04259d-8fca-4e42-8e17-44f5dca7edf4 "Six-Shooting Lightning"], www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp Ares: A Defense Technology Blog]</ref> AIM-120 AMRAAM or AIM-132 ASRAAM internally or two air-to-air and two air-to-ground weapons (up to two 2,000 lb weapons in A and C models; two 1,000 lb weapons in the B model) in the bomb bays. These could be AMRAAM, the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) — up to 2,000 lb (910 kg), the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) — a maximum of four in each bay, the Brimstone anti-armor missiles, Cluster Munitions (WCMD) and High Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARM). The MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile is currently being adapted to fit internally in the missile spots and may be integrated into the F-35.//www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3a4f04259d-8fca-4e42-8e17-44f5dca7edf4 "Six-Shooting Lightning"], www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp Ares: A Defense Technology Blog]</ref> AIM-120 AMRAAM or AIM-132 ASRAAM internally or two air-to-air and two air-to-ground weapons (up to two 2,000 lb weapons in A and C models; two 1,000 lb weapons in the B model) in the bomb bays. These could be AMRAAM, the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) — up to 2,000 lb (910 kg), the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) — a maximum of four in each bay, the Brimstone anti-armor missiles, Cluster Munitions (WCMD) and High Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARM). The MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile is currently being adapted to fit internally in the missile spots and may be integrated into the F-35.

• At the expense of being more detectable by radar, many more missiles, bombs and fuel tanks can be attached on four wing pylons and two wingtip positions. The two wingtip pylons can only carry AIM-9 Sidewinders, while the Storm Shadow and Joint Air to Surface Stand-off Missile (JASSM) cruise missiles can be carried in addition to the stores already integrated. An air-to-air load of 12 AIM-120s and two AIM-9s is conceivable using internal and external weapons stations, as well as a configuration of six two thousand pound bombs, four AIM-120s and two AIM-9s.

Directed-energy weapons

web.archive.org/web/20040626050316/http://www.aviationnow.com/content/publication/awst/20020708/aw32.htm Lasers]. Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref><ref>Morris, Jefferson. "Keeping Cool A Big Challenge For JSF Laser, Lockheed Martin Says." Aerospace Daily, 26 September 2002. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//web.archive.org/web/20040604124353/http://www.aviationnow.com/avnow/news/channel_military.jsp?view=story&id=news/masd0926.xml JSF Laser] Retrieved: 3 June 2007.</ref> Some concepts, including solid-state lasers and high-power microwave beams, may be nearing operational status.<ref>Fulghum, David A. "Lasers, HPM Weapons Near Operational Status." Aviation Week and Space Technology, 22 July 2002. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//web.archive.org/web/20040613094437/http://www.aviationnow.com/content/publication/awst/20020722/aw173.htm Lasers, HPM Weapons] Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref>//web.archive.org/web/20040626050316/http://www.aviationnow.com/content/publication/awst/20020708/aw32.htm Lasers]. Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref><ref>Morris, Jefferson. "Keeping Cool A Big Challenge For JSF Laser, Lockheed Martin Says." Aerospace Daily, 26 September 2002. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//web.archive.org/web/20040604124353/http://www.aviationnow.com/avnow/news/channel_military.jsp?view=story&id=news/masd0926.xml JSF Laser] Retrieved: 3 June 2007.</ref> Some concepts, including solid-state lasers and high-power microwave beams, may be nearing operational status.<ref>Fulghum, David A. "Lasers, HPM Weapons Near Operational Status." Aviation Week and Space Technology, 22 July 2002. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//web.archive.org/web/20040613094437/http://www.aviationnow.com/content/publication/awst/20020722/aw173.htm Lasers, HPM Weapons] Retrieved: 8 February 2006.</ref>

Popular culture

The first major film appearance of an F-35B was in Live Free or Die Hard (released as Die Hard 4.0 or Die Hard 4 outside North America) in 2007. The film used a combination of a full-scale model and CGI<ref> Gray, Simon. "One-Man Riot Squad." American Cinematographer Volume 88, issue 7, July 2007. p. 32.</ref><ref>Douglas, Edward. "Bruce Willis Gets a Second Life!" comingsoon.net, 14 June 2007. www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.

References

Notes

Bibliography

• Kopp, Carlo and Goon, Peter. "Joint Strike Fighter." Air Power Australia www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.ausairpower.net/jsf.html Joint Strike Fighter] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.
• Spick, Mike. The Illustrated Directory of Fighters. London: Salamander, 2002. ISBN 1-84065-384-12002.
• Winchester, Jim. "Lockheed Martin X-35/F-35 JSF." Concept Aircraft: Prototypes, X-Planes and Experimental Aircraft. Kent, UK: Grange Books plc., 2005. ISBN 1-84013-309-2.

</div>

External links

• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.jsf.mil/ Official JSF web site]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.teamjsf.com/ Official Team JSF industry web site]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/f35jointstrikefighter.cfm F-35 - Royal Air Force]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//acquisition.navy.mil/programs/air/f_35_jsf US Navy Research, Development & Acquisition, F-35 page]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 - Global Security]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.aerospaceweb.org/aircraft/fighter/f35/ F-35 profile on Aerospaceweb.org]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.aerospaceweb.org/question/planes/q0163.shtml F-35 weapons carriage]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.f-35jsf.net/ F-35 JSF news articles]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.hvkk.tsk.mil.tr/Turkce/HavaUzay/Projeler/ProjelerJSF.htm TuAF F-35]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/12/18/220382/pictures-lockheed-martin-rolls-out-vertical-lift-f-35b-jsf.html F-35B Roll out pictures]
• www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 Interview with Bruce Willis for Live Free or Die Hard] Retrieved: 15 July 2007.</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.//www.kokhavivpublications.com/2002/israel/12/0212100736.html Israel's Fighter of the Future]

Media

X-35 flight, video of transition to VTOL configuration, hover, take off in STOVL configuration, in-flight re-fuelling, vertical hover and landing.

Test firing of F-35 gun.

Vertical landing (video)

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