Advanced Military Aircraft Operations

A collection of images showcasing advanced military fighter jets like the F-35, F-22, and F-15, emphasizing their takeoff, landing, and preparation in various operational environments.

Military personnel near a F-15 Eagle, U.S. Air Force

220526-XN177-1224 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 26, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 26, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot with the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, prepares to take off on a training mission during exercise Northern Lightning at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 10, 2022. Nomads will integrate with 4th- and 5th-generation assets from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air National Guard during the tactical-level, joint training exercise replicating todays air battlespace. (U.S. Air Force video by Airman 1st Class Leandra Garcia)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron takes off at Łask Air Base, Poland, Aug. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed to Łask Air Base, Poland to bolster NATOs collective defense posture through Air Shielding.

Military personnel near a F-15 Eagle, U.S. Air Force

U.S. Air Force Col. Jordan Grant, vice commander of the 33rd Fighter Wing, completes first flight in an F-35A Lightning II at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 4, 2022. Grant is a student in the 33rd FWs F-35 TX-course, a course for experienced pilots transitioning to the F-35 from different fighter platforms.

220330-N-XN177-1136 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 30, 2022) - Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 1st Class Paul Salame launches an F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225 on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), March 30. VMFA 225 is embarked aboard Tripoli as part of the U.S. Marine Corps' Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing carrier platforms, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 arrive at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, May 17, 2022. Following successful completion of Exercise RED FLAG 22-1, VMFA-242 achieved full operational capability, allowing them to execute a full set of missions as an F-35B Lightning II squadron.

The F-22 Demonstration Team touches down at Patrick Space Force Base, Fla., May 19, 2022. The demo team performed at the Space Coast International Air Show in Titusville, Fla.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 taxis the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 28, 2022. Marines with VMFA-242 conducted close air support with inert GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs at Combined Arms Training Center, Fuji in support of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. This training marked the first-ever live close air support missions in Japan with an F-35B Lightning II aircraft.

Nomads with the 58th Fighter Squadron and 60th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, return to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 30, 2022. Leadership with the 33rd FW directed the repositioning of aircraft to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, to prepare for possible damaging winds caused by Hurricane Ian.

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Rebecca Mertes, a tactical aircraft maintenance specialist with the Wisconsin Air National Guard's 115th Fighter Wing, performs the engine intake inspection of an F-35A Lightning II aircraft during a Weapon System Evaluation Program exercise February 15, 2024, at Tyndall Air force Base, Florida. The Combat Archer exercise was a formal evaluation of the unit's ability to conduct air-to-air live fire missions. Airmen were given the opportunity to train on tasks and skills that they don't perform at their home unit such as unrestricted takeoffs and loading live ammunition onto the airframe. Air National Guard

An F-22 Raptor flies during a training mission Feb. 16, 2012, over Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. Holloman AFB is home to the 7th Fighter Squadron and its fleet of F-22s. The Raptor performs both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, allowing full realization of operational concepts vital to the 21st century Air Force.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron (EFS) taxies for take-off at Łask Air Base, Poland, Aug. 16, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed to Łask Air Base, Poland to bolster NATOs collective defense posture through Air Shielding.

An F-35B Lightning II with 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego, California, conducts an aerial demonstration during the 2022 MCAS Air Show at MCAS Miramar, Sept. 24, 2022. The F-35B Lightning II, flown by aviators with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 502, is equipped with short takeoff and vertical landing capability that expands its range by allowing it to operate from naval vessels and in austere, expeditionary environments. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

An F-35A Lightning II assigned to the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, takes off at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 11, 2022 The F-35A is providing next-generation stealth capabilities as aggressors with enhanced situational awareness to train and reduce vulnerability for the United States and joint forces participating in this exercise iteration.

Italian Navy F-35B on the flight deck of the ITS Cavour aircraft carrier.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Daniel Davila, 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, conducts post flight recovery of an F-35 Lightning II after its arrival for The Great Texas Airshow Apr. 21, 2022, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. The U.S. Air Force is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a The Great Texas Airshow as a key event. The airshow features the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Thunderbirds performing for people to display the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to excite and inspire. In addition to showcasing the elite skills all pilots must possess, the Thunderbirds demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the Air Forces premier multi-role fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

A pair of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F-35As taxi out for a training mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, May 4, 2022. Several F-35s from the RAAF are conducting training with U.S. aircraft to increase interoperability.

The F-22 Demonstration Team touches down at Patrick Space Force Base, Fla., May 19, 2022. The demo team performed at the Space Coast International Air Show in Titusville, Fla.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned tothe 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, taxis on the flight line during Weapons System Evaluation Program East-22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 16, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadrons capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 12, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Two F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, briefly stop off at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, on Sept. 27, 2022. The 52nd Fighter Wings forward presence in Central Europe, specifically Germany and Detachment 1 in Poland, is critical to both the U.S. and NATO Alliance strategic security interests.

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

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor aircraft assigned to 154th Wing Hawaii Air National Guard prepares to depart from a hangar operated by Marine Wing Liaison Kadena (MWLK) for joint force training at Kadena Air Force base, Okinawa, Japan, June 13, 2022. MWLK provides comprehensive operational and logistical support to local and deployed U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy squadrons operating at Kadena Air Base.

Senior Airman Chelsea Lewis, 493rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, stands by to marshal a U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II from the 495th Fighter Squadron during exercise Falcon Strike 2022 at Amendola Air Base, Italy, Nov. 14, 2022. Falcon Strike 22 consisted of multiple NATO nations practicing joint offensive and defensive air operations that integrated fourth and fifth-generation airpower.

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

The U.S. Air Force 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and Marine Aircraft Group 12 performed a capabilities demonstration during a pre-planned readiness exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 7, 2022. The demonstration included U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lighting IIs, KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft, and U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors and F-35A Lighting II aircraft, showcasing a high level of readiness and joint service capability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A pilot assigned to the 58th Fighter Squadron, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, performs a pre-flight checklist onboard an F-35A Lightning II aircraft at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Feb. 13, 2023. Airmen assigned to the 58th FS temporarily relocated to MacDill to avoid inclement weather conditions affecting their home station. Despite the relocation, the 58th FS pursued operations as part of a training program for newly selected F-35 pilots.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Cesar Arguello, 43d Fighter Generation Squadron assistant dedicated crew chief, signals to an F-22 Raptor pilot at Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia, May 3, 2022. The 325th Fighter Wing sent more than 200 personnel and 22 aircraft to participate in Sentry Savannah, a near-peer training exercise hosted by the Air National Guards Air Dominance Center.

030926-F-9104W-027. Base: Tyndall Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AETC

030926-F-7709A-001. Base: Tyndall Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: ACC

An F-35A Lightning II, assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES), Nellis Air Force Base (AFB), Nevada, takes off for a Black Flag 22-2 mission at Nellis AFB, Nev., Sept. 20, 2022. This Black Flag assessed interoperability of near-future capabilities across the domains and services with a focus on tactical data link and consolidated F-35 cross service maintenance and logistics.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, currently deployed to the 32nd Tactical Air Base, Łask, Poland, prepares for take-off at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, on Sept. 27, 2022. The U.S. Air Force is engaged, postured, and ready with credible force to assure, deter and defend in an increasingly complex security environment.

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

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Steven Engelhardt, Plane Captain from Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron One, marshals an F-35A Lightning II prior to taking off for a Black Flag 22-2 flight at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Sept. 21, 2022. Members of the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps took part in joint interoperability maintenance and logistics training during Black Flag.

220623-N-XN177-1164 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 23, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 23, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

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

The 158th Fighter Wing here received it's first two F-35 Lightning IIs during an event at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vt., Sept. 19, 2019. The wing is the second operational F-35 unit in the Air Force, and the first in the Air National Guard to receive the fifth generation aircraft, with a total of 20 planned to be delivered over the following several months.

Ground crew members ready an F-117A stealth fighter aircraft for its next mission during Operation Desert Storm.. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Saudi Arabia(SAU)

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Louis Marino, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, inspects the fuel nozzle of an F-35B Lightning II aircraft before routine flight operations during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 12, 2022. The Indo-Pacific is a top priority for the United States, and exercises like Red Flag-Alaska are committed to ensuring U.S. forces are capable and ready to face the evolving challenges in the region.

PHILLIPINE SEA (April 22, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

151003-N-QD363-165ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 3, 2015) An F-35C Lightning II carrier variant joint strike fighter assigned to the Salty Dogs of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 makes and arrested landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). The F-35C Lightning II Pax River Integrated Test Force is currently conducting follow-on sea trials aboard the Eisenhower.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 192nd Fighter Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, Virginia flies over the Georgia coast during an air combat exercise at Sentry Savannah on May 5, 2022. Sentry Savannah is a joint force integrated exercise of fourth- and fifth-generation fighter jets, designed to showcase the Air Forces air combat readiness in preparation for tomorrows fight.

220623-N-XN177-1256 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 23, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 23, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

An F-22 Raptor from the 199th Fighter Squadron approaches a 203rd Air Refueling Squadron Stratotanker for an in-air refueling December 7, 2022, near the coast of Oahu, Hawaii. The training was held as part of exercise PACIFIC EDGE 23, held to enhance air-combat proficiencies through the integration of allied units and further the interoperability between U.S. and bilateral aircraft units. Pilots from the 199th Fighter Squadron and the 19th Fighter Squadrons operate F-22s together under the Air National Guard-led active-associate construct to accomplish their total-force mission.

March 27, 2012 - An F-22 Raptor returns to a training mission after refueling over the Pacific Ocean near the Hawaiian Islands.

220708-N-EI127-3125PACIFIC OCEAN (July 8, 2022) - An F-35 Lighting II, assigned to the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to take off the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), July 8. Makin Island has the ability to embark and support all Marine aviation assets including the MV-22 Osprey and the F-35B Lightning II. Makin Island is currently underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the Virginia Air National Guard lines up behind a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the Kansas Air National Guard for in-fight refueling over the Atlantic Ocean during Sentry Savannah 22-1, May 3, 2022. Sentry Savannah is a joint, total force integrated exercise that showcases the nation's combat aircraft readiness, tests the capabilities of warfighters in a near-peer environment and trains the next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

The F-22 Demonstration Team touches down at Patrick Space Force Base, Fla., May 19, 2022. The demo team performed at the Space Coast International Air Show in Titusville, Fla.

F-22 RaptorPrimary function: Multi-role fighter. Speed: Above Mach 2; higher on supercruise. Dimensions: Wing- span 32 ft. 8 in.; length 62 ft. 1 in.; height 16 ft. 8 in. Range: 1,850 miles; without external tanks, more than 1,250 miles unrefueled. Armament: M-61A1 20 mm cannon, AIM-120C AMRAAM, AIM-9, GBU-32 JDAMS. Crew: One.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, takes off for a Red Flag-Nellis 22-3 mission, July 12, 2022. The 414th Combat Training Squadron conducts Red Flag exercises to provide aircrews the experience of multiple, intensive air combat sorties in the safety of a training environment.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Cooper McQuade, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 214airframe mechanic, signals an F-35A Lightning II pilot to brake prior tolaunch May 9, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. McQuade is one oftwelve Marines sent to Luke from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma to learnabout Luke AFBs Lightning Technician Program in order to implement theprogram at their base. The Lightning Technician Program blends F-35maintenance career fields to maximize manpower utilization while shrinkingunits deployment footprint to fit the Air Force's Agile Combat Employmentconcept.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Gunner Gatewood, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 225 powerline mechanic, performs a preflight check on an F-35B Lightning II during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 3, 2022. RF-A is a premier training event for joint units to bolster interoperability while simultaneously honing combat skills to provide joint forces the opportunity to exercise combat capabilities through shared tactics, techniques, and procedures under a simulated war-time environment.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot and maintainer, both assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, talk over the radio after the plane lands at the Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 15, 2022. This marks the first time USAFE based F-35s have attended TLP, showcasing the capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter to NATO allies.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th Air Expeditionary Wing, sits inside an F-35A cockpit during Agile Combat Employment training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 28, 2022. ACE is a key operating concept for how Pacific Air Forces will fight in a modern, contested environment.

March 2, 2011 - A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range for a training mission during Red Flag 11-3. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies.

U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate Handlers ground guide F-35B Lightning IIs with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), Jan. 28, 2022 in the Philippine Sea. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of America Expeditionary Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Malik Lewis)

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Vinton K. Ulrich III, an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, lands in an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana, Oct. 26, 2022. VMFAT-501 deployed to NAS JRB New Orleans to increase entry-level pilots' proficiency in offensive-air support, electronic warfare, and routine flight operations for their future fleet assignments. VMFAT-501 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Esteban Vera, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, inspect an Air Force F-22 Raptor aircraft assigned with 154th Wing Hawaii Air National Guard in a hangar operated by Marine Wing Liaison Kadena (MWLK) for joint force training at Kadena Air Force base, Okinawa, Japan, June 12, 2022. MWLK provides comprehensive operational and logistical support to local and deployed U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Air Force squadrons operating at Kadena Air Base.

220525-XN177-1074 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 25, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 25, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

EAST CHINA SEA (March 11, 2018) An F-35B launches off the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) as part of a routine patrol in the Indo-Pacific region. Pilots with the "Green Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 (VMFA-121), assigned under the Okinawa-based 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, are scheduled to conduct a series of qualification flights on Wasp over a multi-day period. The Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group is conducting a regional patrol meant to strengthen regional alliances, provide rapid-response capability, and advance the Up-Gunned ESG concept.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 6, 2015) An F-35C Lightning II carrier variant joint strike fighter assigned to the Salty Dogs of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 prepares for take-off aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). The F-35C Lightning II Pax River Integrated Test Force is conducting follow-on sea trials.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua "Cabo" Gunderson, commander of the Air Combat Command F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team from Langley Air Force Base, Hampton, Va., performs during the Arctic Thunder Open House at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 29, 2022. The team flies at airshows around the globe, performing maneuvers that demonstrate the capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

030926-F-9104W-023. Base: Tyndall Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AETC

A Hawaii Air National Guard F-22 Raptor takes off during a training exercise Jan. 21, 2022, at Honolulu International Airport, Hawaii. The exercise is held to provide participants a multi-faceted, joint venue with supporting infrastructure and personnel. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Mysti Bicoy)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 taxis from the fuel pits at Ie Shima Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2022. III Marine Expeditionary Force hosted a media workshop event for Okinawan media representatives to provide a better understanding of what III MEF does in order to enhance relationships with their host nation. The media representatives had the opportunity to fly on military aircraft, observe live-fire ranges, and visit the Jungle Warfare Training Center.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kristin Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, showcases the unique aerial capabilities of the USAFs most advanced 5th generation multi-role stealth fighter, the F-35A, during Wings Over Solano at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 14, 2022. The Wings Over Solano open house and air show provided an opportunity for the local community to interact directly with the base and its Airmen and see capabilities on full display at Travis AFB.

A U.S. Marine F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 conducts simulated air to air combat operations in support of RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 11, 2022. RF-A serves as an ideal platform for international engagement, enabling the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures while improving interoperability to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor and a P-51D Mustang conduct a heritage flight during the 2022Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24,2022. The F-22 Raptor is the Air Force's fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Its combination ofstealth, supercruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improvedsupportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. The theme for the2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win,” reflects the Marine Corps’ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

DF-ST-85-11671. Subject Operation/Series: OPPORTUNE JOURNEY 84 Base: Hickam Air Force Base State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Zero” Kelvin, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron F-22 pilot prepares to taxi for take-off at Łask Air Base, Poland, Sept. 3, 2022. The 90th EFS forward deployed to support NATO’s Air Shielding mission.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 approaches the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), while underway, June 10, 2022. Marines with VMFA-121, based out of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, are conducting flight operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

An F-35 Lightning II assigned to the 4th Fighter Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, takes off for a Red Flag-Nellis 22-3 mission, July 12, 2022. Participants conduct a variety of scenarios, including defensive counter air, offensive counter air suppression of enemy air defenses and offensive counter air-air interdiction.

An F-22 Raptor, assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, takes off for a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Dec. 6, 2022. The U.S. Air Force Weapons School trains tactical experts and leaders to control and exploit air, space and cyber on behalf of the joint force.

U.S Air Force Captain Kristin BEO Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team Commander, flies during a demonstration at the Oregon International Airshow in McMinnville, Ore., Aug. 20, 2022. The F-35 Demo team travels around the United States and around the world, showcasing the worlds most technologically advanced fifth-generation fighter jet.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team performs a practice airshow performance at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Jan. 11, 2023. The F-35 Demo Team performs rehearsal flights regularly to maintain flying certifications and to uphold and maintain their mission and Air Force recruiting standards.

U.S. Air Force Airmen with the 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, await incoming aircraft at Burlington Air National Guard Base, Vermont, July 12, 2022. The 33rd FW is utilizing the Vermont ANG air space to continue effective flying operations during hazardous summer weather in Florida.

United States Air Force F-22 Raptor.

An F-35B Lightning II takes off during the Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration of the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35Bs Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, exit the landing zone while conducting rolling vertical landing training during Realistic Urban Training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 9, 2022. VMFA-122 conducted rolling vertical landing training to enhance the squadrons ability to recover F-35Bs vertically, enabling the Marine Air-Ground Task Forces expeditionary nature of providing aviation based fires using armed forward arming and refueling sites from expeditionary advanced bases and in austere environments.

U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilots assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, await take-off at the Tactical Leadership Programme 22-3 at Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, Sept. 12, 2022. TLP has become the focal point for NATOs Allied Air Forces tactical training and development of knowledge and leadership skills, necessary to face todays air tactical challenges.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis on the runway upon arrival to an agile combat employment training event at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 15, 2022. During the ACE training event, the 199th EFS is assigned to the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and operating with the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron to refine fifth generation integration tactics, techniques and procedures.

An F-35B Lightning II, assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, taxis to the staging area at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, June 8, 2022. VMFAT-501 trains pilots to be proficient and combat ready to serve in their future-fleet units and conduct aviation operations globally. VMFAT-501 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Servante R. Coba)

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Elie Madrid, 61st Aircraft Maintenance Unit F-35 Lightning II crew chief, halts an F-35A, August 8, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Crew chiefs are a vital part of the maintenance force that ensure aircraft are airworthy and mission-ready.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jacob Rea, an F-35B Lightning II pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, does preflight checks while conducting rolling vertical landing training during Realistic Urban Training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 9, 2022. VMFA-122 conducted rolling vertical landing training to enhance the squadrons ability to recover F-35Bs vertically, enabling the Marine Air-Ground Task Forces expeditionary nature of providing aviation based fires using armed forward arming and refueling sites from expeditionary advanced bases and in austere environments.

Capt. Steven Magnum Trojan, 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron pilot, performs a preflight inspection on an F-35A Lightning II at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 12, 2022. U.S. Air Force F-35 aircraft from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska arrived in the Republic of Korea to conduct training flights with ROKAF to enhance interoperability between the two Air Forces on and around theKorean Peninsula.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 taxis during field carrier landing practice (FCLP) at Ie Shima, Japan, Oct. 18, 2022. Marine Corps pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 conduct field carrier landing practice training to maintain a high level of readiness in the Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 takes off at Ie Shima Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2022. III Marine Expeditionary Force hosted a media workshop event for Okinawan media representatives to provide a better understanding of what III MEF does in order to enhance relationships with their host nation. The media representatives had the opportunity to fly on military aircraft, observe live-fire ranges, and visit the Jungle Warfare Training Center.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron, takes off during exercise Poseidons Rage 22 at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 18, 2022. PR22 marks the first concurrent deployment of fourth and fifth-generation fighter squadrons by United States Air Forces in Europe to the same forward operating location, showcasing the ability to conduct large force employment exercises and strengthening the NATO alliance.

Italian Navy F-35B on the flight deck of the ITS Cavour aircraft carrier.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor pilot assigned to the 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, taxis on the runway at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, during Polar Force 22-4, March 31, 2022. The F-22 Raptor performs both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, making it a vital tool to the 21st Century Air Force. The F-22s characteristics provide synergistic effects, increasing lethality against all advanced air threats.

The U.S. Air force 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and Marine Aircraft Group 12 performed a capabilities demonstration during a pre-planned readiness exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, July 7, 2022. The demonstration included five U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets, eight F-35B Lightning IIs, a KC-130J Super Hercules, 10 U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors and 10 F-35A Lightning II aircraft, showcasing a high level of readiness and joint service capability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. MCAS Iwakuni is uniquely qualified to enable the Joint Force, be it through providing use of the station's collocated harbor and airfield, serving as a staging point for non-organic aircraft operations, or any number of other operational activities.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Thomas Sharff, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, salutes Capt. Samuel Thompson, a pilot, with VMFA 242, before flight operations at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 15, 2022. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12 are conducting unit level training in Australia to maintain readiness, test expeditionary capabilities, and increase interoperability with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Benjamin Tomcho, 495th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, marshals an F-35A Lightning II during exercise Point Blank 22-4 at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 24, 2022. Point Blank is a multilateral exercise aimed at increasing interoperability and collective readiness of NATO forces, to ensure the skies with the European theater remain sovereign.

PACAF units hold capabilities demonstration during RED FLAG-ALASKA 22-3, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 12, 2022. The team showcased 75 different fighter aircraft to include Fifth-generation fighters like the F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Rapter.

A B-2 Spirit bomber taxis on a flightline Oct. 26, 2014, during Exercise Global Thunder 15. The B-2 is one of the key aircraft used to support U.S. Strategic Commands global strike and bomber assurance and deterrence missions. Its stealth capabilities provide U.S. decision makers the capability to deter strategic attacks and, if necessary, penetrate the most secure defense systems to rapidly deliver its payload.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 43d Fighter Squadron, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, takes off at Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia, May 2, 2022. Sentry Savannah, an Air National Guard near-peer threat training exercise, served as the capstone for F-22 Raptor student pilots in the 43d Fighter Squadron.

A 325th Fighter Wing F-22A Raptor takes off for a mission Oct. 28 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. A squadron of the wings Raptors have been at Eglin since Hurricane Michael devastated Tyndall Air Force Base in 2018.

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