F-35C Clocks 100 Flights

The first carrier variant test aircraft for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter takes off on its 100th test flight Nov. 29 with Marine Corps test pilot Lt. Col. Matthew Taylor at the controls. (Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin)

In 2011, the F-35 Integrated Test Force completed initial jet blast deflector and catapult launch testing. In 2012, the team will continue carrier suitability testing for initial sea trials scheduled for 2013. The F-35C carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with its larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear to withstand catapult launches and deck landing impacts associated with the demanding aircraft carrier environment. The F-35C is undergoing test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River prior to delivery to the fleet. (Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin)

The F-35 Integrated Test Team gathers for a group photo in celebration of the F-35C's 100th flight.