F -35 Lightning ll Walkaround 2024

Both of these F-35s were on display at the Wings over Solano Air Show in 2024.
The F-35 Lightning II is a cutting-edge, multi-role fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin as part of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. Designed to meet the diverse needs of the United States and its allies, the F-35 represents a quantum leap forward in aviation technology, boasting unparalleled capabilities in stealth, sensor fusion, and mission flexibility.
Here are some key features and aspects of the F-35 Lightning II:
1. **Stealth Capabilities**: The F-35 incorporates advanced stealth technology, including a low-observable airframe design, radar-absorbent materials, and advanced coatings, making it significantly harder to detect by enemy radar systems.
2. **Advanced Sensors and Avionics**: The F-35 is equipped with state-of-the-art sensor systems, including active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, distributed aperture system (DAS), and electro-optical targeting system (EOTS). These systems provide unprecedented situational awareness, allowing pilots to detect, track, and engage multiple targets simultaneously.
3. **Versatility**: The F-35 is designed to excel in a wide range of mission scenarios, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and electronic warfare. Its modular design and advanced software allow for easy integration of new capabilities and upgrades to adapt to evolving threats.
4. **STOVL Capability**: One variant of the F-35, the F-35B, features short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capability, enabling it to operate from austere or confined airstrips, as well as amphibious assault ships. This makes it particularly well-suited for expeditionary and amphibious operations.
5. **Global Partnership**: The F-35 program is a multinational effort, with participation from several allied nations, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Norway, and many others. This collaborative approach fosters interoperability and cost-sharing among partner nations, enhancing coalition operations and defense cooperation.
6. **Cost and Controversy**: The F-35 program has faced scrutiny and criticism for its complexity, delays, and cost overruns. However, proponents argue that the F-35's advanced capabilities and the economies of scale achieved through large-scale production justify its investment.
Overall, the F-35 Lightning II represents a paradigm shift in modern air combat, leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovation to maintain air superiority in an increasingly complex and contested operational environment. As it continues to enter service with air forces around the world, the F-35 is poised to shape the future of aerial warfare for decades to come.

[@woodypope7421]

Amazing plane Paul. It was difficult for me to understand your talk over the music, the music was too loud for me. Maybe just my old ears :) Good video!

[@Bayareaandbeyond777]

Yes, the music is a little loud.. but it's not worth doing the whole thing over again to change it.