F-35 Lightning II
11812
226136005
2008-07-16T23:51:58Z
BillCJ
2043601
Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/63.227.136.181|63.227.136.181]] ([[User talk:63.227.136.181|talk]]) to last version by BillCJ
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
{{otheruses4|a fighter aircraft|the U.S. Department of Defense contract competition which resulted in its selection|Joint Strike Fighter Program|the computer game portraying aircraft from the competition|Joint Strike Fighter (game)}}
{{Infobox Aircraft
|name=F-35 Lightning II
|type=Stealth multi-role fighter
|manufacturers=[[Lockheed Martin Aeronautics]]<br/>[[Northrop Grumman]]<br/>[[BAE Systems]]
|image = Image:F35test edit.jpg
|caption = F-35A prototype AA-1 in flight
|first flight=[[15 December]] [[2006]]<ref>[https://www.teamjsf.com/jsf/data.nsf/7074259f3965fd0985256f43007b0964/7f70d66a0aaef181852573540049ead4?OpenDocument F-35 First Flight], ''TeamJSF.com''. Retrieved: [[10 October]] [[2007]].</ref>
|introduction= [[2011 in aviation|2011]] (scheduled)
|status=Under development / pre-production
|produced=2003-present
|number built= 13 flight-test aircraft;<ref>''Jane's All the World's Aircraft''. "Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II", (Online version, [[January 21]], [[2008]]). Accessed [[April 19]], [[2008]]. (Less than 8 were completed prior to [[April 1]], [[2008]].[http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=139220])</ref> 14 LRIP aircraft on order.
|unit cost=[[US$]]83 million (flyaway cost in Then-Year dollars)<ref name="usaf_fy2009_budget">[http://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-080204-081.pdf "FY 2009 Budget Estimates." p. 1–1.] [[United States Air Force]]. February 2008.</ref>
|developed from= [[Lockheed Martin X-35]]
|variants with their own articles=
}}
The '''Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II''' is a single-seat, single-engine, [[Stealth aircraft|stealth]]-capable [[military aviation|military]] [[strike fighter]], a multi-role aircraft that can perform [[close air support]], [[tactical bombing]], and [[air superiority fighter]] missions. The F-35 has three different models; one is the conventional takeoff and landing variant, the second is short takeoff and vertical-landing variant, and the third is a carrier-based variant.
The F-35 is descended from the [[Lockheed Martin X-35|X-35]], the product of the [[Joint Strike Fighter Program|Joint Strike Fighter]] (JSF) program. Its development is being principally funded by the [[United States]], with the [[United Kingdom]] and other partner governments providing additional funding.<ref name="glob_sec_F-35">[http://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>[http://www.lockheedmartin.com/wms/findPage.do?dsp=fec&ci=12246&rsbci=0&fti=112&ti=0&sc=400 Lockheed Martin statement]</ref>{{Dead link|date=July 2008}} with the [[Maiden flight|first flight]] on [[15 December]] [[2006]].<ref>[http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=2731034 "F-35 Test Flight Deemed a Success"], ABC News, [[16 December]] [[2006]].</ref>
==Development==
===JSF Program history===
{{main|Joint Strike Fighter Program}}
===Requirement===
[[Image:F-35 Wind Tunnel Model.jpg|thumb|right|An F-35 wind tunnel testing model in the [[Arnold Engineering Development Center]]'s 16-foot transonic [[wind tunnel]]]]
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, [[aircraft carrier|carrier]]-based (CV) variant.
The F-35 is being designed to be the world's premier strike aircraft through 2040. It is intended that its close and long-range air-to-air capability will be second only to that of the [[F-22 Raptor]].<ref>[http://www.lockheedmartin.com/products/f35/f-35-capabilities.html F-35 Capabilities], Lockheed Martin.</ref> Specifically the F-35’s requirements are that it be: four times more effective than legacy fighters in air-to-air combat, eight times more effective in air-to-ground battle combat, and three times more effective in reconnaissance and suppression of air defenses. These capabilities are to be achieved while still having significantly better range and a smaller [http://akss.dau.mil/dag/Guidebook/IG_c5.2.1.1.asp logistical footprint] than legacy aircraft.<ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Lightning II], GlobalSecurity.org.</ref>
===Origins and selection===
[[Image:X-32 X-35 Cdp misc 004.jpg|thumb|[[Boeing X-32]] (left) and [[Lockheed Martin X-35]] prior to down-select in 2001, where the X-35 was chosen.]]
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]].
The contract for System Development and Demonstration (SDD) was awarded on [[26 October]] [[2001]] to Lockheed Martin, whose X-35 beat the [[Boeing X-32]]. DoD officials and British [[William Bach|Minister of Defence Procurement]] Lord Bach, said the X-35 consistently outperformed the X-32, although both met or exceeded requirements. The designation of the fighter as "F-35" came as a surprise to Lockheed, which had been referring to the aircraft in-house by the designation "F-24."<ref>[http://www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/nonstandard-mds.html#_MDS_F35 Designation Systems]</ref>
====Naming====
On [[7 July]] [[2006]], the U.S. Air Force officially announced the name of the F-35: Lightning II,<ref name="jsf_name_announcement">"[http://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 Company]]'s aircraft division was incorporated into [[British Aircraft Corporation|BAC]], a predecessor of F-35 partner [[BAE Systems]]. Other names previously listed as contenders were [[Kestrel (bird)|Kestrel]], [[Phoenix (mythology)|Phoenix]], [[Piasa]], [[Black Mamba]] and [[Supermarine Spitfire|Spitfire]] II. Lightning II was also an early company name for the aircraft that became the [[F-22 Raptor]].
===International participation===
While the United States is the primary customer and financial backer, the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, Turkey, Australia, Norway and Denmark have contributed [[United States dollar|US$]]4.375 billion toward the development costs of the program.<ref name="glob_sec_F-35" /> Total development costs are estimated at more than US$40 billion (underwritten largely by the United States), while the purchase of an estimated 2,400 planes is expected to cost an additional US$200 billion.<ref>Merle, Renae. [http://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>[http://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.
There are three levels of international participation. The levels generally reflect the financial stake in the program, the amount of technology transfer and subcontracts open for bid by national companies, and the order in which countries can obtain production aircraft. The United Kingdom is the sole "Level 1" partner, contributing US$2.5 billion, about 10% of the development costs<ref>[https://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 (SCP).<ref>Schnasi, Katherine V. [http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d04554.pdf "Joint Strike Fighter Acquisition: Observations on the Supplier Base."] ''US Accounts Office''. Retrieved: [[8 February]] [[2006]].</ref>
Some of the partner countries have wavered in their public commitment to the JSF program, hinting or warning that unless they receive more subcontracts or technology transfer, they will forsake JSF for the [[Eurofighter Typhoon]], [[JAS 39 Gripen|Saab Gripen]], [[Dassault Rafale]] or simply upgrade their existing aircraft. Norway has several times threatened to put their support on hold unless substantial guarantees for an increased industrial share is provided. Despite this Norway has signed all the Memoranda of Understanding, including the latest one detailing the future production phase of the JSF program. They have, however, indicated that they will increase and strengthen their cooperation with both competitors of the JSF, the [[Eurofighter Typhoon|Typhoon]] and the [[JAS 39 Gripen|Gripen]].<ref>''Defense Industry Daily''. [http://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|Joint Combat Aircraft}}
The [[United Kingdom]] plans to acquire 138 F-35Bs<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/6219122.stm "MPs warn over US fighter jet deal."] BBC. Retrieved: [[10 January]] [[2008]].</ref> for the [[Royal Air Force]] and the [[Royal Navy]].<ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35b.htm F-35B Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)] www.globalsecurity.org</ref>
The UK became increasingly frustrated by a lack of U.S. commitment to grant access to the technology that would allow the UK to maintain and upgrade its F-35s without US involvement. This is understood to relate mainly to the software for the aircraft. For five years, British officials sought an [[International Traffic in Arms Regulations|ITAR]] waiver to secure greater technology transfer. This request, which has the blessing of the Bush administration, was repeatedly blocked by U.S. Representative [[Henry Hyde]], who said that the UK needed to tighten its laws protecting against the unauthorized transfer of the most advanced U.S. technology to third parties.<ref>[http://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>
BAE Systems [[CEO]] [[Michael Turner (businessman)|Mike Turner]] complained that the US had denied his company access to the aircraft's [[source code]]. On [[21 December]] [[2005]], an article in the ''[[Glasgow Herald]]'' quoted the chairman of the [[Defence Committee|House of Commons Defence Select Committee]] as saying "the UK might have to consider whether to continue in the programme" if no access were granted.<ref>"UK Defence Committee Statement." ''UK Parliament''. [http://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> [[Paul Drayson, Baron Drayson|Lord Drayson]], [[Defence Procurement Agency|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. [http://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 [[Eurofighter Typhoon|Typhoon]].<ref>[http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmselect/cmdfence/uc824-iii/uc82402.htm Evidence to UK Defence Select Committee]. Retrieved: [[1 April]] [[2006]].</ref>
On [[27 May]] [[2006]], President [[George W. Bush]] and Prime Minister [[Tony Blair]] announced that "Both governments agree that the UK will have the ability to successfully operate, upgrade, employ, and maintain the Joint Strike Fighter such that the UK retains operational sovereignty over the aircraft."<ref>[http://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 code 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> [http://www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSL1278309720061212 "Update 2 — UK signs memo with US on Joint Strike Fighter."] ''Reuters'', [[12 December]] [[2006]]. 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.
On [[25 July]] [[2007]], the Ministry of Defence confirmed that they have placed orders for the two new aircraft carriers of the [[CVF|Queen Elizabeth Class]] that will allow the purchase of the F-35B variant.<ref>BBC News Online. [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/6914788.stm "MoD confirms £3.8bn carrier order."] ''news.bbc.co.uk''.</ref> On [[May 2]], [[2008]], however, the ''[[Washington Post]]'' reported that an [[Inspector General]]'s report chided the U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Security Service for failing to ensure that BAE Systems was exercising appropriate controls over access to sensitive technologies, while both BAE and Lockheed Martin denied that any technology had been compromised.<ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103227.html "Security of F-35 Jet Secrets Questioned"], ''Washington Post'', May 2, 2008.</ref>
====Italy====
[[Italy]] plans to acquire a total of 131 F-35s. Of these, 109 will be F-35As for the [[Aeronautica Militare|Italian Air Force]]. The F-35A CTOL (Conventional Take Off and Landing) aircraft will replace [[AMX International AMX|AMXs]] and [[Panavia Tornado]]s. The remaining 22 are to be F-35Bs for the [[Marina Militare|Italian Navy]] for operation on the [[aircraft carrier]] [[Cavour (550)|''Cavour'']].<ref>[http://www.navytimes.com/news/2007/04/defense_stovl_jsf_070430/ "STOVL JSF future debated"], ''Navy Times'', [[1 May]] [[2007]], Retrieved: [[29 December]] [[2007]].</ref>
====Netherlands====
The [[Netherlands]] has plans to acquire 85 F-35As and options on another 15 F-35A for the [[Royal Netherlands Air Force]]. The aircraft will replace an aging fleet of Lockheed Martin [[F-16]]AM. The Dutch government expects the costs to be €5.5 billion for the initial purchase and €9.1 billion for 30 years of service.<ref>[http://www.rekenkamer.nl/9282000/d/p396_rapport.pdf "Stand van zaken september 2006, Monitoring verwerving Joint Strike Fighter"]{{Dead link|date=July 2008}}, ''Algemene Rekenkamer'', October 2006, p. 22.</ref> On [[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> However, on [[29 February]] [[2008]], the [[Council of Ministers of the Netherlands|executive council]] of the [[Politics of the Netherlands|Dutch government]] decided to go ahead with the purchase of two test aircraft and a MOU was signed.<ref>[http://www.nu.nl/news/1457749/11/JSF_pakt_duurder_uit_dan_gepland.html JSF is more expensive than expected]</ref>
====Canada====
Canada has been involved in the Joint Strike Fighter Program from the very beginning, investing $10 million dollars US to be a "informed partner" during the evaluation process. Once Lockheed Martin was selected as the primary contractor for the JSF program, Canada then elected to become a level 3 participant along with Norway, Denmark, Turkey, and Australia on the JSF project, paying US$100 million from the Canadian [[Department of National Defence]] (DND) to be paid over 10 years and an additional $50 million dollars from [[Industry Canada]], in 2002 as a early participant of the JSF program.<ref name="Williams 2006">Williams, Alan S. ''Reinventing Canadian Defence Procurement: A View From the Inside''. Kingston, Ontario, Canada: Breakout Education Network, Queen's University, 2006. ISBN 0-9781693-0-1.</ref>
Canada's rationale for joining the JSF project was not a urgent need for replace Canada's fleet of CF-18 Hornets; instead it was driven primarily by economics.<ref name="Williams 2006"/> Through Canadian government investment in the JSF project, Canadian companies were allowed to compete for contracts within the JSF project, as there were fears that being shut out from industrial participation in such a large program could severely damage the Canadian aviation industry.<ref name="Williams 2006"/> It also allowed Canada access to information regarding the F-35 as a possible contender when Canada eventually does plan to replace the CF-18 Hornet fleet, improved interoperability with major allies, allowed the DND to gain insight on leading edge practices in composites, manufacturing and logistics, and the ability to recoup some investment if the government did decide to purchase the F-35.<ref name="Williams 2006"/>
As a result of Canadian government investment in the JSF project, 144 contracts were awarded to Canadian companies, universities and government facilities, for a combined contract value of $490 million US for the period 2002 to 2012, with an expected value of US$1.1 billion from current contracts between the period between 2013 to 2023, with a total potential estimated value of Canadian JSF involvement from US$4.8 billion to US$6.8 billion.<ref name="Williams 2006"/>
====Turkey====
On [[12 July]] [[2002]], [[Turkey]] became the seventh international partner in the JSF Project, joining the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, Denmark and Norway. On [[25 January]] [[2007]], Turkey signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for involvement in F-35 production.<ref>[http://www.electronicaviation.com/news/Military/1060 Electronic Aviation: Despite JSF Pact, Turkey Doesn’t Rule Out Eurofighter Buy. January 31, 2007.]</ref> The [[Turkish Air Force]] is expected to order 100 F-35A "CTOL/Air Force versions" at a reported cost of $11 billion.<ref>[http://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 the [[Turkish Aerospace Industries]] (TAI).
A Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed between [[Turkish Aerospace Industries|TAI]] and Northrop Grumman ISS (NGISS) International on [[6 February]] [[2007]]. With the LOI, [[Turkish Aerospace Industries|TAI]] becomes the second source for the F-35 Lightning II center fuselage during the JSF Signing. The number of center fuselages to be produced by [[Turkish Aerospace Industries|TAI]] will be determined depending on the number of F-35s Turkey will procure and the number of F-35s to be produced worldwide. The LOI represents a potential value in excess of $3 billion.<ref>[http://www.tai.com.tr/en_haber_guncel.aspx?id=84 Turkish Aerospace Industries]</ref>
TAI of Turkey is one of the only two International Suppliers to Northrop Grumman Corporation (the other being Denmark). On [[10 December]] [[2007]], the Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. (TAI) was authorized by Northrop Grumman Corporation to commence fabricating subassemblies for the first two F-35 production aircraft. The subassemblies – composite components and aircraft access doors – will be used in the F-35 center fuselage, a major section of the aircraft being produced by Northrop Grumman, a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 global industry team.<ref>[http://live.defenseworld.net:9080/go/defensenews.jsp?catid=1&id=2116 Defense World]</ref>
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, California.
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.
====Australia====
[[Image:Aust JST USN.jpg|thumb|Australia's then-Minister for Defence [[Brendan Nelson|Dr. Brendan Nelson]] signing the JSF Production, Sustainment and Follow-on Development Memorandum of Understanding in December 2006]]
In May 2005, the Australian government announced that it would delay its planned 2006 decision on buying the JSF to 2008, and thus past the term of the government of the day. Australia, like the UK, has insisted it must have access to all software needed to modify and repair aircraft. Analysis conducted by the [[RAAF|Royal Australian Air Force]] has determined that the F-35 "is the most suitable aircraft for Australia's needs".<ref>[[Brendan Nelson|Nelson, Brendan]], The Hon. Dr. [http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=6341 "Joint Strike Fighter." Press release.]''[[Minister for Defence (Australia)|Minister for Defence]]'', [[1 February]] [[2007]]. Retrieved: [[1 February]] [[2007]].</ref>
There has been debate in Australia over whether the F-35 is the most suitable aircraft for the RAAF. Some media reports, lobby groups and politicians have raised doubts that the aircraft will be ready in time to replace the RAAF's aging fleet of [[General Dynamics F-111]] strike aircraft and McDonnell Douglas [[F/A-18 Hornet]] fighters. Some critics say the more expensive [[F-22 Raptor]] or the [[Eurofighter Typhoon]] may be better choices, both offering better range, [[dogfight]]ing capability, and [[supercruise]] at a cost that may not be much more than the F-35<ref>[http://www.ausairpower.net/ Air Power Australia web site] Related discussions and analyses, although the F-22 is not for sale internationally.</ref> – claims that as of July 2006 are being examined in a parliamentary inquiry.<ref>[http://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>
In a statement released in early August 2006, then-Australian Defence Minister Dr. [[Brendan Nelson]] revealed that while the F-35 still had governmental support, Australia is starting to investigate other possible aircraft should the F-35 prove to be unfeasible.<ref>[http://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. [http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20556293-31037,00.html "RAAF 'won't need' interim jet."], ''[[News.com.au]]''. Retrieved: [[10 October]] [[2006]].</ref> However, on [[6 March]] [[2007]], Dr. Nelson announced the Australian Government would purchase 24 [[F/A-18E/F Super Hornet|F/A-18F Super Hornets]] from Boeing to fill the gap left by the retiring [[General Dynamics F-111|F-111]] strike aircraft at a cost of potentially AU$6 billion.<ref>[http://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>{{cite web |author= Bartlett, Liam |url=http://sixtyminutes.ninemsn.com.au/sixtyminutes/stories/2007_03_18/story_1879.asp |title= Transcript of '60 Minutes' broadcast 'Project Joint Strike Fighter'|date= [[18 March]] [[2006]] |accessdate= [[18 March]] [[2007]] |publisher= Ninemsn |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20070322210522/http://sixtyminutes.ninemsn.com.au/sixtyminutes/stories/2007_03_18/story_1879.asp |archivedate=2007-03-22}}</ref>
On [[13 December]] [[2006]], Minister Nelson signed the JSF Production, Sustainment and Follow-on Development Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement provides the cooperative framework for the acquisition and support of the JSF over its life.<ref>[http://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. [http://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>
However following the election of a Labor Party government in the [[Australian federal election, 2007|2007 federal election]] the new government ordered a review of the RAAF's fighter procurement plans, including the purchase of the F-35. This review will include an evaluation of the F-35, advanced derivatives of the [[MiG-29]] and [[Su-35]], as well as the F-22's suitability for Australia, with the Defence Minister stating that "I intend to pursue American politicians for access to the Raptor".<ref>Govindasamy, Siva. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/01/10/220724/australia-to-weigh-lockheed-martin-f-22-against-russian-fighters.html "Australia to weigh Lockheed Martin F-22 against Russian fighters."] ''Reed Business Information'', Flightglobal.com, [[10 January]] [[2008]]. Retrieved: [[2 February]] [[2008]].</ref>
In March 2008 the [[Royal Australian Navy]] was reported to have requested that the government purchase a third ''[[Canberra class Landing Helicopter Dock|Canberra Class]]'' ship to utilize for fixed wing carrier operations and F-35B STOVL aircraft. The government was reported to be unlikely to approve this request, however.<ref>{{cite news |first=Ian |last=McPhedran |authorlink= |coauthors= |title=Royal Australian Navy's wish list of $4b |url=http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,23426308-662,00.html |work= |publisher=Herald Sun |date=2008-03-25 |accessdate=2008-03-26 }}</ref>
====Norway====
Norway participates in the F-35 program as a Level 3 partner in the System Development and Demonstration phase with a view to enabling its industry to compete for industrial opportunities.<ref>[http://www.lockheedmartin.com/europe/norway/index.html Norway<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Norwegian National Deputy Rune Fagerli, the country's sole representative on the Joint Strike Fighter program, told SPACE.com the Norwegian Royal Ministry of Defence has pledged $125 million in preparations to replace a fleet of F-16 jets that have about 12 years left of operation. "By getting involved here, on the ground level, we can try and address the needs of Norway into this capable fighter early," said Fagerli, a colonel. In Norway, F-16s are fitted with drag chutes because of wet, slippery runways. International cooperation to aircraft development could also yield aircraft from cooperating nations that fit well together during combat. Fagerli also mentioned that Norwegian pilots currently fly missions over Afghanistan in F-16s alongside Danish and Dutch aviators.<ref>[http://www.space.com/businesstechnology/technology/jsf_fighter_020312.html Joint Strike Fighter: A Jet for Every Occasion], space.com, [[12 February]] [[2003]].</ref>
The F-35 is one of the aircraft types being evaluated by the Norwegian Future Combat Aircraft Capability Project as a replacement for the F-16s currently in-service.<ref>[http://www.regjeringen.no/nb/dep/fd/pressesenter/pressemeldinger/2006/The-Government-moves-the-combat-aircraft-acquisition-into-the-next-stage-Maintains-three-candidates.html?id=440094 "The Government moves the combat aircraft acquisition into the next stage – Maintains three candidates"], Norway Ministry of Defence, [[15 December]] [[2006]].</ref>
====Denmark====
Denmark has joined the Joint Strike Fighter program as a Level 3 partner and the [[Danish Air Force]] is considering the replacement of 48 of its fighters with next generation aircraft.
===Security Cooperative Participants (SCP)===
====Israel====
In 2003, Israel signed a letter of agreement, worth almost $20 million, to formally join the system development and demonstration (SDD) effort for the F-35 as a "security cooperation participant" (SCP).<ref>[http://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>[http://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 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>[http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1148287839455&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull "Israel, US battling over sale of jets"], ''Jerusalem Post''.</ref>
On [[3 September]] [[2007]], [[Israel Defense Forces|IDF]] Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi announced the purchase of a squadron of F-35s which Israel will begin receiving in 2014. However, U.S. defense officials later agreed to allow Israel to receive the fighters as early as 2012.<ref>[http://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 $70-80 million.<ref>[http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull&cid=1211434083027 "Israel submits request to buy F-35 jets"], ''Jerusalem Post''.</ref>
The Jerusalem Post reports the Pentagon has agreed to supply the F-35A Lightning II variant to Israel as early as 2012, instead of in 2014 or 2015. This would make Israel one of the first nations to receive the aircraft, and very possibly the first foreign nation. Previous objections to Israel’s installation of its own technology in the F-35 — as it has done with every US fighter it has received — were also reportedly overcome. At present, the only Israel technology in the standard version will be the JSF HMDS helmet mounted display system, designed in cooperation with Elbit Systems. Israel also asked to manufacture F-35 aircraft locally at a 1:2 ratio, but the reports did not indicate whether that request was granted.<ref name="IAF">[http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull&cid=1198517198806 "IAF interested in new US-made jet"], ''Jerusalem Post''.</ref>
The timing and technology agreements reportedly came in the wake of a Washington meeting between Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak and US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, and may represent an attempt to deflect Israeli calls for an export version of the F-22A Raptor, which has more stealth and capability, and whose production line is currently scheduled to close in 2010.<ref>[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/f-35s-to-israel-early-0409/ $544M to Support Foreign Ships - Defense Industry Daily]</ref> <ref name="IAF"/>
====Singapore====
In February 2003, Singapore joined the JSF program's System Design and Development (SDD) Phase, as a Security Co-operation Participant (SCP).<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2003/feb/22feb03_nr2.html |title =Singapore Signs Letter of Intent for Joint Strike Fighter Programme |publisher =MINDEF }}</ref>
===Potential exports===
The F-35 is also a potential offer to the [[Indian Air Force]] as of July 2007. This has been interpreted as part of a tactic to sell the [[F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16]] as a multi-role fighter to the IAF, as part of its [[Indian MRCA Competition|competition]] to acquire 126 new fighters.<ref>[http://www.ibnlive.com/news/us-wants-indias-fighter-jet-order-dangles-f35-carrot/45214-3.html?from=search "US wants India's fighter jet order, dangles F-35 carrot"], IBN Live, [[19 July]], [[2007]].</ref> [[Lockheed Martin]] formally expressed its interest to sell F-35 to India.<ref>[http://www.rediff.com/news/2007/jul/22f35.htm News]</ref>
The [[Brazilian Air Force]] recently has added the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to the list of aircraft under consideration for its relaunched new fighter procurement, called F-X2. The F-35 replaces the F-16, which was in contention for the previous F-X BR program, shelved in 2003 and finally abandoned in 2006.<ref>[http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3A27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3A2380d347-7739-4057-88c3-74a6ec2870e8 Brazil Adds F-35 to New Fighter Contenders], Aviation Week</ref><ref>[http://www.fab.mil.br/portal/capa/index.php?mostra=499 FAB - NOTA À IMPRENSA - FX-2 (in Portuguese)], [http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fab.mil.br%2Fportal%2Fcapa%2Findex.php%3Fmostra%3D499&sl=pt&tl=en&hl=en&ie=UTF-8 english translation]</ref>
==Design==
[[Image:F-35A - Inauguration Towing.jpg|right|thumb|The F-35A being towed to its inauguration ceremony on [[7 July]] [[2006]] ]]
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'' January 2004.</ref>{{Verify source|date=May 2008}} [[Lockheed Corporation|Lockheed]] teamed with the [[Yakovlev Design Bureau]], developer of the [[Yakovlev Yak-141|Yakovlev Yak-141 "Freestyle"]], in the 1990s.<ref>Hayles, John. [http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/types/russia/yakovlev/yak-41/yak-41.htm "Yakovlev Yak-41 'Freestyle'".] ''Aeroflight'', [[28 March]] [[2005]]. Retrieved on [[3 July]] [[2008]].</ref><ref>[http://www.janes.com/defence/air_forces/news/jawa/jawa010103_1_n.shtml Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)], Jane's. Retrieved on [[3 July]] [[2008]].</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 [[aviator|pilot's]] situational awareness and improve identification and weapon delivery, and to relay information quickly to other command and control (C2) nodes;
* High speed data networking including IEEE-[[1394b]]<ref name="avweek_20070205">Philips, E. H. "The Electric Jet." ''[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]]'', [[5 February]] [[2007]].</ref> and [[Fibre Channel]].<ref name="avionics_20070601">Parker, Ian. [http://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.{{Fact|date=June 2007}}
===Cockpit===
The F-35 features a full-panel-width "panoramic cockpit display (PCD)", with dimensions of 20 by 8 inches (50 by 20 centimeters).<ref>[http://www.vectorsite.net/avf35.html The Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)]</ref> A cockpit speech-recognition system ([[Direct Voice Input]]) is planned to improve the pilot's ability to operate the aircraft over the current-generation. The F-35 will be the first U.S. operational fixed-wing aircraft to use this system, although similar systems have been used in [[AV-8B]] and trialled in previous U.S. jets, particularly the [[F-16 VISTA]].<ref name="voice">[http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123071861 "Researchers fine-tune F-35 pilot-aircraft speech system.] ''af.mil'', [[10 October]] [[2007]].</ref> In development the system has been integrated by Adacel Systems Inc with the speech recognition module supplied by SRI International.<ref> [http://www.technologynewsdaily.com/node/8242 Technology News]</ref>
A helmet mounted display system (HMDS) will be fitted to all models of the F-35. While some [[4th generation jet fighter|fourth-generation fighters]] (such as the Swedish [[JAS 39 Gripen]]) have offered HDMS along with a [[head up display]] (HUD), this will be the first time in several decades that a front-line tactical jet figher has been designed to never carry a HUD.<ref name=hdms>[http://www.rockwellcollins.com/news/page8813.html "VSI's Helmet Mounted Display System flies on Joint Strike Fighter."] ''Rockwell Collins'', 2007. Retrieved: [[8 June]] [[2008]].</ref>
The pilot flies the aircraft by means of a right-hand [[side-stick]] and left-hand throttles, both of which are supplied by [[BAE Systems]].<ref>[http://www.militarypower.com.br/english-frame4-f35.htm F-35 JSF Joint Strike Fighter, USA]</ref>
===Sensors===
[[Image:F-35 EOTS.jpeg|thumb|EOTS under the nose of a mockup of the F-35.]]
The main sensor on board the F-35 is its [[APG-81|AN/APG-81]] [[AESA]]-radar, designed by [[Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems]].<ref>[http://www.es.northropgrumman.com/ASD/combat/APG-81.html APG-81 (F-35 Lightning II)] Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems. Retrieved: [[4 August]] [[2007]].</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>[http://www.lockheedmartin.com/products/JointStrikeFighterElectroOpticalTar/ Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control: Joint Strike Fighter Electro-Optical Targeting System.] Retrieved: [[11 April]] [[2008]].</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===
The F-35B variant was in danger of missing performance requirements because it weighed too much — reportedly, by 2,200 [[pound (mass)|pound]]s (1,000 kg) or 8 percent. In response, Lockheed Martin added engine thrust and shed more than a ton by thinning the aircraft's skin; shrinking the weapons bay and vertical tails; rerouting some thrust from the roll-post outlets to the main nozzle; and redesigning the wing-mate joint, portions of the electrical system, and the portion of the aircraft immediately behind the [[Cockpit (aviation)|cockpit]].<ref>Fulghum, David A. and Wall, Robert. [http://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>
===Armament===
[[Image:F-35 weapons bay.jpeg|thumb|right|Weapons bay on a [[mock-up]] of the F-35.]]
The F-35 includes a [[GAU-12 Equalizer|GAU-22/A]] four-barrel 25 mm cannon.<ref>[http://www.gdatp.com/products/Gun_Systems/JSF/JSF.htm F-35 gun system], General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products.</ref> The Cannon will 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"/><ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-specs.htm F-35 specifications], GlobalSecurity.org</ref>
Internally (current planned weapons for integration), up to two air-to-air missiles and two air-to-ground weapons (up to two 2,000 lb bombs in A and C models; two 1,000 lb bombs in the B model) in the bomb bays.<ref name=F-35_brief>[http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/AFA%20Conf%20-%20JSF%20Program%20Brief%20-%2026%20Sept%2006.pdf F-35 Program Brief], USAF, [[26 September]] [[2006]].</ref> These could be [[AIM-120 AMRAAM]], [[AIM-132 ASRAAM]], the [[Joint Direct Attack Munition]] (JDAM) — up to 2,000 lb (910 kg), the [[AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon|Joint Standoff Weapon]] (JSOW), [[GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb|Small Diameter Bombs]] (SDB) — a maximum of four in each bay, the [[Brimstone missile|Brimstone]] anti-armor missiles, Cluster Munitions (WCMD) and [[AGM-88 HARM|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. The [[UK]] had originally planned to put up to four AIM-132 ASRAAM internally but this has been changed to carry 2 internal and 2 external ASRAAMs.<ref>[http://www.f-16.net/news_article2762.html "F-35 Lightning II News: ASRAAM Config Change For F-35"], f-16.net, [[4 March]] [[2008]].</ref>
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 Sidewinder|AIM-9X Sidewinder]]s, while the AIM-120 AMRAAM, [[Storm Shadow]], [[AGM-158 JASSM| Joint Air to Surface Stand-off Missile]] (JASSM) cruise missiles and 480 gallon fuel tanks can be carried in addition to the stores already integrated. An air-to-air load of eight 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, two AIM-120s and two AIM-9s.<ref name=F-35_brief/><ref>[http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2007targets/Day1/Davisday1.pdf JSF & Airspace Requirements]</ref> With its payload capability, the F-35 can carry more air to air and air to ground weapons than legacy fighters it is to replace as well as the F-22 Raptor.<ref>[http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=MzM3M2U5NDBjYjE0ODI1ZjFlYjYzZjFlZWZjZjhiMmI= National Review]</ref>
===Manufacturing responsibilities===
[[Lockheed Martin Aeronautics]] is the prime contractor and performs aircraft final assembly, overall system integration, mission system, and provides forward fuselage, wings and flight controls system. [[Northrop Grumman]] provides [[Active Electronically Scanned Array]] (AESA) radar, center fuselage, weapons bay, and arrestor gear. [[BAE Systems]] provides aft fuselage and empennages, horizontal and vertical tails, crew life support and escape systems, [[Electronic warfare]] systems, fuel system, and Flight Control Software (FCS1). [[Alenia Aeronautica|Alenia]] will perform final assembly for Italy and, according to an Alenia executive, assembly of all European aircraft with the exception of the UK's.<ref>[http://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==
[[Image:CTOL.jpg|thumb|The F-35A Lightning II's first flight on [[15 December]] [[2006]]]]
[[Image:STOVL.jpg|thumb|The F-35B's (STOVL-version) first flight on [[11 June]] [[2008]]]]
===Testing===
On [[19 February]] [[2006]], the first F-35A (USAF version) was rolled out in [[Fort Worth, Texas]]. The aircraft underwent extensive ground testing at [[Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base]] in fall 2006. On [[15 September]] [[2006]] the first engine run of the [[Pratt & Whitney F135|F135]] afterburning turbofan was conducted in an airframe, with the tests completed on [[18 September]] after a static run with full afterburner. The engine runs were the first time that the F-35 was completely functional on its own power systems.<ref name="jsf_engine_run">[http://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."]{{Dead link|date=July 2008}}''Lockheed Martin'' (news release), [[22 September]] [[2006]].</ref> On [[15 December]] [[2006]], the F-35A completed its maiden flight.
On [[3 May]] [[2007]], an electrical problem consisting of electrical arcing inside a hydraulic control box forced the aircraft to make an emergency landing.<ref name= "Defense Tech">[http://www.defensetech.org/archives/003895.html Defense Tech]</ref> It was grounded until [[7 December]], when test pilot Jon Beesley flew a 55-minute test flight.<ref name= "Defense Tech"/>
A unique feature of the test program is the use of the so-called [[Lockheed CATBird]] avionic testbed, a highly modified [[Boeing]] [[737-300|737-330]], inside of which are racks holding all of F-35's avionics, as well as a complete F-35 cockpit.<ref name="plan">[http://www.niid.nl/file.aspx?i=847 "Flying Test-Bed Power Switched On"], F-35 JSF Flight Plan. Retrieved: [[20 November]] [[2006]].</ref>
On [[31 January]] [[2008]] at Fort Worth, Texas, Lt. Col. James "Flipper" Kromberg of the U.S. Air Force became the first military service pilot to evaluate the F-35, taking the aircraft through a series of maneuvers on its 26th flight.
On [[12 March]] [[2008]], the first F-35A (AA-1) began [[aerial refueling]] testing on its 34th test flight.<ref>Lockheed Martin. [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/0313ae_f-35refuel.html Lockheed Martin F-35 Succeeds in First Aerial Refueling Test]. [[13 March]] 2008]].</ref>
On [[11 June]] [[2008]], after extensive ground testing, the first F-35B (STOVL version, designated BF-01) made its maiden flight at Fort Worth. The flight, which featured a conventional takeoff, was piloted by BAE Systems' test pilot Graham Tomlinson.<ref>[http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2008/061108ae_f35B_firstflight.html "F-35B Stovl Stealth Fighter Achieves Successful First Flight"]. Lockheed Martin, [[11 June]] 2008]].</ref>
==Variants==
The F-35 is planned to be built in three different versions to suit the needs of its various users. Orders for many aircraft are expected with the [[United States Air Force]] planning to acquire 1,765.<ref>''[[Air Forces Monthly]]'', October 2007 edition.</ref>
===F-35A===
The F-35A is 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 cannon, the GAU-22/A. This 25 mm cannon, a development of the 20 mm [[M61 Vulcan]] is designed for increased effectiveness against ground targets. The GAU-22 is a version of the GAU-12 carried by the USMC's [[AV-8B Harrier II]].
The F-35A is expected to match the F-16 in maneuverability, instantaneous and sustained high-g performance, and outperform it in stealth, payload, range on internal fuel, avionics, operational effectiveness, supportability and survivability. <ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35a.htm F-35A Joint Strike Fighter]</ref> It also has an internal laser designator and infrared sensors.
The A variant is primarily intended to replace the USAF's [[F-16 Fighting Falcon]]s, beginning in 2013, and replace the [[A-10 Thunderbolt II]] starting in 2028.
===F-35B===
[[Image:F-l3 lift fan.jpg|thumb|right|X-35B lift fan; the [[VTOL]] propulsion system is designed and manufactured by [[Rolls-Royce plc]] ]]
[[Image:Engine of F-35.jpg|thumb|right|The F135 engine with lift fan, roll posts, and rear vectoring nozzle, as designed for the F-35B, at the Paris Air Show, 2007]]
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-8B 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.
Two different jet engines are being developed for the F-35; the [[Pratt & Whitney F135]] and the [[General Electric/Rolls-Royce F136]]. The STOVL versions of both powerplants use the innovative LiftSystem®, patented by Lockheed Martin and built by Rolls-Royce. This system is more like the Russian [[Yakovlev Yak-141|Yak-141]] and German [[EWR VJ 101|VJ 101D/E]]<ref>[http://www.vstol.org/GermanVSTOLFighters.pdf Swivel nozzle VJ101D and VJ101E, S.27-29]</ref> than the preceding generation of STOVL designs (such as the [[AV-8 Harrier II|Harrier]]).
The LiftSystem is composed of a lift fan, driveshaft, clutch, 2 roll posts and a "3 Bearing Swivel Module" (3BSM).<ref>[http://defence.rolls-royce.com/Rolls-Royce-LIftSystem/ Rolls-Royce LiftSystem]. LiftSystem Description.</ref> The 3BSM is a [[thrust vectoring]] nozzle which allows the main engine exhaust to be deflected downward at the tail of the aircraft. The lift fan near the front of the aircraft provides a counter-balancing thrust. Somewhat like a vertically mounted [[turboprop]] within the forward fuselage, the lift fan is powered by the engine's low-pressure (LP) turbine via a driveshaft and gearbox. Roll control during slow flight is achieved by diverting pressurized air from the LP turbine through wing mounted thrust nozzles called Roll Posts.<ref>[http://www.ingenia.org.uk/ingenia/issues/issue20/hutchinson.pdf Going vertical. Developing a STOVL system.]</ref>
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.
This variant is intended to replace the later derivatives of the [[Harrier Jump Jet]], which was the world's first operational short takeoff, vertical landing fighter, ground attack aircraft. The RAF and Royal Navy will use this variant to replace the [[BAE Harrier II|Harrier GR7/GR9s]]. The F-35B variant was unveiled at Lockheed's Fort Worth plant on [[18 December]] [[2007]].<ref> [http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/LATU14218122007-1.htm "First Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Stealth Fighter Unveiled at Lockheed Martin."] ''Marine Corps News'', [[18 December]] [[2007]]. Retrieved: [[18 December]] [[2007]].</ref> and the first test flight was on [[11 June]] [[2008]].<ref> [http://www.star-telegram.com/business/story/694234.html] </ref> The U.S. Marine Corps will use the F-35B to replace both its [[AV-8 Harrier II|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 carrier 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 decreased landing speed, increased range and payload, with twice the range on internal fuel compared with the [[F/A-18 Hornet|F/A-18C Hornet]], achieving much the same goal as the heavier [[F/A-18E/F Super Hornet]].
The US Navy intends to buy 480 F-35Cs to replace the F/A-18A, -B, -C, and -D Hornets. It will also serve as a stealthier complement to the Super Hornet.<ref>[http://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 first two functional prototype F-35C units to be produced.<ref>[http://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)==
[[Image:F-35.jpg|thumb|The first of 15 pre-production F-35s]]
[[Image:F-35 engine.jpg|thumb|A Pratt and Whitney F135 engine undergoes altitude testing at the Arnold Engineering Development Center.]]
[[Image:F35ctolstores.jpg|thumb|F-35A and F-35C armament]]
{{aircraft specifications
|jet or prop?=jet
|plane or copter?=plane
|ref=F-35 Program brief,<ref name="F-35_prog_brief">[http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/documents/AFA%20Conf%20-%20JSF%20Program%20Brief%20-%2026%20Sept%2006.pdf F-35 Program brief (PDF)]</ref> F-35 JSF Statistics<ref name="F-35_Stats">[http://www.jsf.mil/downloads/mediakits/7764.zip F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Media Kit Statistics (ZIP, 98.2 KB)]</ref>
|crew=1
|length main=50 [[foot (length)|ft]] 6 [[inch|in]]
|length alt=15.37 m
|span main=35 ft 0 in
|span alt=10.65 m
|height main=17 ft 4 in
|height alt=5.28 m
|area main=459.6 ft²
|area alt=42.7 m²
|empty weight main= A; 29,036 lb B; 32,161 lb C; 32,070 lb <!-- Out the program brief, Janes use the obsolete weight figures out the old stats obsolet LM MEDIA kit -->
|empty weight alt=13,170 kg A; 14,588 kg B; 14547 kg C;<!-- Out the program brief, Janes use the obsolete weight figures out the old stats -->
|loaded weight main=44,400 lb
|loaded weight alt=20,100 kg
|max takeoff weight main=60,000 lb
|max takeoff weight alt=27,200 kg
|number of jets=1
|engine (jet)=[[Pratt & Whitney F135]]
|type of jet=afterburning [[turbofan]]
|thrust main=25,000 lbf<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
|thrust alt=111 kN
|afterburning thrust main= 40,000+ [[pound-force|lbf]]<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
|afterburning thrust alt=178+ kN
|more general=
'''Secondary Powerplant''': 1× [[General Electric/Rolls-Royce F136]] afterburning turbofan, >40,000 lbf (178 kN) [in development]
* '''Lift fan''' (STOVL): 1× Rolls-Royce Lift System driven from either F135 or F136 power plant, 18,000 lbf (80 kN)
* '''Internal fuel:''' F-35A: 18,480 lb (8,382 kg); F-35B: 14,003 lb (6,352 kg); F-35C: 20,085 lb (9,110 kg)
|max speed main= [[Mach number|Mach]] 1.6+<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
|max speed alt=1,200 [[mph]], 1,931 km/h
|cruise speed main=<!--Mach-->
|cruise speed alt=<!-- mph, km/h-->
|range main=A: 1,200 [[nautical mile|nmi]]; B: 900 nmi; C: 1400 nmi<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
|range alt=A: 2,200 km; B: 1,667 km; C: 2,593 km
|range more=on internal fuel
|combat radius main=600 nmi
|combat radius alt=690 mi, 1,110 km
|combat radius more=
|ceiling main=<!-- ft-->
|ceiling alt=<!-- m-->
|climb rate main=[[Classified information in the United States|classified]]
|climb rate alt=not publicly available
|loading main=91.4 lb/ft²
|loading alt=446 kg/m²
|thrust/weight=<br/>
** '''With full fuel:''' A: 0.89; B: 0.92; C: 0.81<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
** '''With 50% fuel:''' A: 1.12; B: 1.10; C: 1.01<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
|more performance=
'''''g''-Limits'''<ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35-specs.htm F-35 Lightning II specifications], Globalsecurity.org</ref>
*F-35A/B/C: 9 ''g''
|Armament=<!-- if you want to use the following specific parameters, do not use this line at all-->
|guns= 1 × [[GAU-12 Equalizer|GAU-22/A]] 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"/>
|bombs=
|rockets=
|missiles= Internal: 4 air-air missiles or 2 air-air missiles and 2 air-surface weapons; External: 6 air-air missiles or 4 air-ground weapons and 2 air-air missiles.<ref>[http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2007targets/Day1/Davisday1.pdf JSF & Airspace Requirements]</ref>
|hardpoints= 6
|hardpoint capacity=15,000 lb (6,800 kg)<ref name="F-35_Stats"/>
|avionics=
}}
==Popular culture==
<!-- ===============({{NoMoreCruft}})===============-->
<!-- Please READ [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content#Popular culture]] and [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Military history/Style guide#Popular culture]] before adding any "Popular culture" items.
Please do not add the many minor appearances of the aircraft. This section is only for major cultural appearances where the aircraft plays a MAJOR part in the story line, or has an "especially notable" role in what is listed. A verifiable source proving the appearance's notability may be required. Random cruft, including ALL Ace Combat, Battlefield 2, and Metal Gear Solid appearances, and ALL anime/fiction lookalike speculation, WILL BE removed.
If your item has been removed, please discuss it on the talk page FIRST. A verifiable source proving the appearance's notability may be required. If a consensus is reached to include your item, a regular editor of this page will add it back. Thank you for your cooperation.-->
<!-- ===============({{NoMoreCruft}})=============== -->
The first major film appearance of a representation of a 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. [http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=20922 "Bruce Willis Gets a Second Life!"], comingsoon.net, [[14 June]] [[2007]]. Retrieved: [[15 July]] [[2007]].</ref> to dramatize its hovering ability using the lift fan.
<!-- READ notes below "Popular culture" before thinking about adding something. -->
==See also==
{{aircontent
|related=
* [[Lockheed Martin X-35]]
* [[F-22 Raptor]]
* [[PAK-FA]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Boeing X-32]]
|lists=
* [[List of fighter aircraft]]
* [[List of active United States military aircraft]]
|see also=
* [[Fourth generation jet fighter#Fifth generation aircraft|Fifth generation aircraft]]
* [[Future Offensive Air System]]
* [[Royal Navy in the 21st century]]
}}
==Media==
<gallery>
Image:F-35 compilation.ogg| X-35 flight, video of transition to VTOL configuration, hover, take off in STOVL configuration, in-flight re-fuelling, vertical hover and landing.
Image:F-35 gun.ogg| Test firing of F-35 gun.
Image:F-35 verticle landing.ogg| Vertical landing
</gallery>
==References==
===Notes===
{{reflist|2}}
===Bibliography===
{{refbegin}}
* Kopp, Carlo and Goon, Peter. [http://www.ausairpower.net/jsf.html "Joint Strike Fighter."] ''[[Air Power Australia]]''. 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.
{{refend}}
==External links==
{{commons|F-35 Joint Strike Fighter}}
* [http://www.jsf.mil/ Official JSF web site]
* [http://www.teamjsf.com/ Official Team JSF industry web site]
* [http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/f35jointstrikefighter.cfm F-35 - Royal Air Force]
* [http://acquisition.navy.mil/programs/air/f_35_jsf US Navy Research, Development & Acquisition, F-35 page]
* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/f-35.htm F-35 - Global Security]
* [http://www.aerospaceweb.org/aircraft/fighter/f35/ F-35 profile] and [http://www.aerospaceweb.org/question/planes/q0163.shtml F-35 weapons carriage on Aerospaceweb.org]
* [http://www.f-35jsf.net/ F-35 JSF news articles]
* [http://www.hvkk.tsk.mil.tr/Turkce/HavaUzay/Projeler/ProjelerJSF.htm TuAF F-35]{{Dead link|date=July 2008}}
* [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/12/18/220382/pictures-lockheed-martin-rolls-out-vertical-lift-f-35b-jsf.html F-35B Roll out pictures]
* [http://www.armedforces-int.com/projects/combat-aircraft/f35-lighting-ii-joint-strike-fighter.asp F35 Article - Armed Forces]
{{Lockheed}}
{{US fighters}}
{{aviation lists}}
[[Category:Jet aircraft]]
[[Category:Carrier-based aircraft]]
[[Category:Fleet Air Arm aircraft]]
[[Category:Stealth aircraft]]
[[Category:International attack aircraft 2000-2009]]
[[Category:International fighter aircraft 2000-2009]]
[[Category:VTOL aircraft]]
[[Category:Lockheed Martin aircraft]]
[[Category:Single engine aircraft]]
[[Category:United States fighter aircraft 2000-2009]]
{{Link FA|nl}}
{{Link FA|pl}}
[[ar:أف 35]]
[[az:F-35]]
[[cs:Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II]]
[[da:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[de:Lockheed Martin F-35]]
[[es:Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II]]
[[fa:اف-۳۵ لایتنینگ ۲]]
[[fr:Lockheed F-35 Lightning II]]
[[fy:Joint Strike Fighter]]
[[ko:F-35 라이트닝2]]
[[hr:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[id:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[it:Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II]]
[[he:F-35 לייטנינג II]]
[[hu:F–35 Lightning II]]
[[nl:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[ja:F-35 (戦闘機)]]
[[no:Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II]]
[[pl:Lockheed F-35 Lightning II]]
[[pt:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[ro:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[ru:Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II]]
[[fi:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[sv:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[vi:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[tr:F-35 Lightning II]]
[[ur:ایف-35 لائیٹننگ]]
[[yi:F-35 לייטנינג II]]
[[zh:F-35閃電II攻擊戰鬥機]]