Modern Military Aircraft

Images of advanced military aircraft, including F-22 and F-35 fighters, showcasing both ground and in-flight scenes, emphasizing technology and operational readiness.

Three F-35B Lightning II's at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona.

An F-22, assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, takes off for a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration (WSINT) mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Dec. 6, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is a combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities.

A U.S. Airman assigned to the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing performs pre-flight inspections on an F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th AEW at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 7, 2022. The 354th AEW sent equipment and personnel to MCAS Iwakuni to train on agile combat employment tactics, techniques and procedures.

220406-N-XN177-2260 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 6, 2020) - An MV-22 Osprey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 flies toward amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 6. VMM-165 transported distinguished visitors to Tripoli for a tour and to observe 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 strike platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required.

U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle

Three F-35B Lightning II's at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona.

A U.S. Air Force pilot guides his F-22 Raptor to a parking spot on the flight line of the Kentucky Air National Guard Base in Louisville, Ky., April 21, 2022. The two-ship Raptor Demonstration Teamwill be among the highlights of this years Thunder Over Louisville air show, to be held on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Louisville on April 23. The event, which celebrates the 75th anniversary of the United States Air Force, is slated to feature more than 30 military and civilian aircraft, including the B-2 Spirit, C-17 Globemaster III, CV-22 Osprey, CH-53 Sea Stallion, F-16 Viper and UH-60 Blackhawk, in addition to eight historic warbirds like the B-24 Liberator, B-29 Superfortress and P-51 Mustang.

An F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 419th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah taxis down the flight line at the Air Dominance Center during Sentry Savannah on May 2, 2022. Sentry Savannah is the Air National Guards largest air-to-air, joint aerial combat exercise for fourth and fifth generation fighters designed to train pilots on offensive and defense air missions, and to showcase the Air Forces combat aircraft readiness

U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning IIs from the 356th Fighter Squadron at Eielson Air Force Base fly side by side with Republic of Korea Air Force F-35s from the 151st and 152nd Combat Flight Squadrons as part of a bilateral exercise over the Yellow Sea, Republic of Korea, July 12, 2022. Fight Tonight readiness highlights the security and stability across the Korean peninsula and remains the number one priority for United States Forces Korea.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, 49th Fighter Wing, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range for a training mission during Red Flag 11-3, March 3, 2011. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. The exercise is hosted north of Las Vegas on the Nevada Test and Training Range.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor with the 325th Fighter Wing, departs after refueling from a KC-135 Stratotanker, with the 117th Air Refueling Wing, during exercise Sentry Savannah May, 5, 2022, in a military operations area off the coast of Georgia. Sentry Savannah is a joint total force integrated exercise that showcases the nation's combat aircraft readiness, tests the capabilities of our warfighters in a near-peer environment and trains our next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II from Eglin Air Force Base takes off during Checkered Flag 17-1 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., Dec. 8, 2016. In addition to the six F-35s working from Tyndalls ramp, six more launch from Eglin each day acting primarily as aggressors, “Red Air,” against the coalition of fighters at Tyndall, “Blue Air.”

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor conducts a heritage flight during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is the Air Forces fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Its combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. 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.

The Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration takes place during 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.

A U.S. Air Force pilot prepares to take off for a night-flying mission in an F-35A Lightning II from the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, Oct. 19, 2022. Night flying is performed monthly to ensure pilots are proficient in every capability of the F-35A.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 taxis down the flight line for routine flight operations in support of RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 4, 2022. RF-A serves as an ideal platform for international engagement, enabling the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures while improving interoperability in order to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Two Italian Air Force F-35A aircraft taxiing on the flight line.

A U.S. Air Force F-22A Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing breaks away from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron after receiving fuel over the Pacific Ocean, Nov. 30, 2022. Kadenas ability to rapidly deploy a variety of aircraft demonstrates its commitment to the safety and security of the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, prepare to take-off during Weapons System Evaluation Program East-22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 14, 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.

A Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F-35A takes off during Black Flag 22-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, May 10, 2022. The F-35s from the RAAF are conducting training with a variety of U.S. aircraft to test and advance interoperable command and control operations.

Aerial view medium shot from the boom operator's window on a KC-135 from the 126th Air Refueling Wing, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. The boom from the KC-135 is attached and refueling a USAF F-16 Falcon in flight. This is all part of an incentive flight, called Center of Influence, for local high school councilors, principals and vice principals to give them more information on the mission, opportunities and benefits of the Air National Guard. Subject Operation/Series: CENTER OF INFLUENCE Base: Scott Air Force Base State: Illinois (IL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, takes off for Red Flag-Nellis 24-1 mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Jan. 16, 2024. These exercises build partnerships and interoperability among our allies and across multiple domains. Red Flag exercises provide aircrews the experience of multiple, intensive air combat sorties in the safety of a training environment.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 prepare to launch F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 5, 2023. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12 routinely conduct arming, expeditionary refueling and flight operations to maintain proficiency and readiness in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

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.

USAF F A-22 RAPTOR

220330-N-XN177-1198 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 30, 2022) -- An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225 moves into a parking position 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.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 takes off from 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.

A U.S. Air Force pilot assigned to the 149th Fighter Squadron, Virginia Air National Guard, prepares for take off in an F-22 Raptor during exercise Sentry Savannah 22-1 at the Air Dominance Center in Savannah, Georgia, May 11, 2022. Sentry Savannah is the Air National Guards premier counter air exercise, encompassing 10 units of fourth- and fifth- generation fighter aircraft, which tests the capabilities of warfighters in a simulated near-peer environment and trains the next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 taxi the flight line prior to take off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 12, 2023. Marines with VMFA-242 will take part in their first deployment in support of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit since becoming fully operationally capable in 2022.

U.S. Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force F-35A Lighting II aircraft soar through the skies over Korea July 12, 2022 in a tight formation. The 356th Fighter Squadron out of Eielson AFB, Alaska, arrived in the Republic of Korea to conduct combined training flights with the ROKAF's 151st and152nd Fighter squadrons. This training on and around the Korean peninsulaenhanced interoperability between the two air forces. Pilots from bothnations were able to share tactics and learn from each other, increasing thelethality of the ironclad US-ROK alliance.

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 Sept. 16, 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. Air Force Staff Sgt. Megan Symons, a 354th Air Expeditionary Wing crew chief, marshalls an F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th AEW, upon initial arrival at Palau International Airport in support of Valiant Shield 22, June 11, 2022. VS22 is the ninth iteration of the series that began in 2006. It is a field training exercise that aims to prepare the Joint Force to rapidly respond to crises and contingencies across the spectrum of operations from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to armed conflict.

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 Miramar 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.

011109-N-9849W-005. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63)

ARABIAN GULF (Jan. 3, 2019) A Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), takes off from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Jan. 3, 2019. Essex is the flagship for the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 13th MEU, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

220824-N-XN177-1053 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 24, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) launches from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 24, 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. Marine with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 signals to an F-35B Lightning II aircraft on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Jan. 12, 2023 Marines with VMFA-242 will take part in their first deployment in support of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit since becoming fully operationally capable in 2022.

Maintainers assigned to the 419th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah conduct an early morning check of an F-35A Lightning II during exercise Sentry Savannah at the Air Dominance Center in Savannah, Georgia on May 6, 2022. Exercises like Sentry Savannah, not only train and test the counter air capabilities of fighter pilots, but they provide critical experience and training to maintenance Airmen in the rapid employment and recovery of aircraft.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Ryan Pottmeyer, 3rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, checks under the wing of an F-22 Raptor during Red Flag 11-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., March 1, 2011. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. The exercise is hosted north of Las Vegas on the Nevada Test and Training Range.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing and flown by a Reserve pilot assigned to the 302nd Fighter Squadron flies over Alaska terrain after refueling Jan. 5. The 477th FG hosted its first civic leader flight, allowing for community leaders to see the Reserve F-22 mission up close.

An F-22 Raptor flies alongside a KC-135 Stratotanker during Red Flag-Alaska 13-3 over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex Aug. 14, 2013. Red Flag-Alaska is a series of Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercises for U.S. and partner nation forces, providing combined offensive counter-air, interdiction, close-air support, and large force employment training in a simulated combat environment. (DOD photo/Senior Airman Zachary Perras)

220128-N-IW125-1195 KEY WEST, Fla. (Jan. 28, 2022) An F-35B Lightning II from the "Warlords" of Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501 lands at Naval Air Station Key Wests Boca Chica Field in Key West, Fla., Jan. 28, 2022. Naval Air Station Key West is the state-of-the-art facility for combat fighter aircraft of all military services, provides world-class pierside support to U.S. and foreign naval vessels, and is the premier training center for surface and subsurface military operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nicholas V. Huynh)

220801-N-VJ326-2286 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 1, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) taxis on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), August 1, 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.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua Cabo Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, performs during the Orlando Air and Space Show at the Orlando Sanford International Airport, Florida, Oct. 30, 2022. The F-22A is a fifth-generation fighter incorporating fourth-generation technology, radical maneuvering capabilities, the ability to fly at supersonic speed without afterburners and unprecedented pilot situational awareness.

A 325th Fighter Wing maintainer renders a salute to an F-22A Raptor pilot prior to a mission Oct. 28 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. A squadron of the wings Raptors and Talons have been at Eglin since Hurricane Michael devastated Tyndall Air Force Base in 2018.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Chokshi, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron crew chief, marshalls an F-22 Raptor to taxi for take-off, Sept. 7, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The 90th EFS forward deployed to support NATOs Air Shielding mission.

An F-22 Raptor flies in a training mission during Red Flag 12-3 over the Nevada Test and Training Range on March 13, 2012. The exercise allows Airmen to experience intensive air combat operations in the safety of a training environment. The F-22 belongs to the 1st Fighter Wing out of Langley Air Force Base, Va.

U.S. Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force F-35A Lighting II aircraftsoar through the skies over Korea July 12, 2022 in a tight formation. The356th Fighter Squadron out of Eielson AFB, Alaska, arrived in the Republicof Korea to conduct combined training flights with the ROKAF's 151st and152nd Fighter squadrons. This training on and around the Korean peninsulaenhanced interoperability between the two air forces. Pilots from bothnations were able to share tactics and learn from each other, increasing thelethality of the ironclad US-ROK alliance. ( US. Air Force Photo by Senior Airman Trevor Gordnier)

Two U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning IIs assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing, Eielson Air Base, Alaska, fly next to a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Aerial Refueling Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Alaska, Aug. 1, 2022. The strength of the JPARC is its expansive co-located air and land ranges as well as a significant potential for co-located air and sea ranges.

220701-N-XN177-1167 EAST CHINA SEA (July 1, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 1, 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-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 125th Fighter Squadron, Tulsa Air National Guard, Oklahoma, taxis the flight line during Checkered Flag 23-1 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Nov. 4, 2022. Checkered Flag is a large-force aerial exercise held at Tyndall which fosters readiness and interoperability through the incorporation of 4th-and 5th-generation aircraft during air-to-air combat training. The 23-1 iteration of the exercise was held Oct. 31- Nov. 10, 2022.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Sean Marcussen, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, conducts preflight checks on a F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 27, 2022. VMFA-121 is the first permanently forward deployed F-35B squadron and provides a variety of mission sets throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron takes-off at Ørland Main Air Station, Norway for a training flight, Sept. 14, 2022. The 90 EFS forward deployed to Norway to conduct an agile combat employment (ACE) exercise with the Royal Norwegian Air Force and NATO Allies and partners. The joint training and integration provided in this ACE exercise improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Ryston Archuleta, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron crew chief, performs final inspections on an F-22 Raptor before take-off from Ørland Main Air Station, Norway, Sept. 14, 2022. The 90 EFS forward deployed to Norway to conduct an agile combat employment (ACE) exercise with the Royal Norwegian Air Force and NATO Allies and partners. The joint training and integration provided in this ACE exercise improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

Italian Air Force F-35B at Amendola Air Base, Italy.

220526-XN177-1043 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 26, 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 26, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron lands at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, May 4, 2022. The 422nd TES performs operational testing of all fighter aircraft and munitions used by Air Combat Command.

220730-N-MM912-2171 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 30, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Singley)

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.

Aerial AA-1 Ferry Flight to Edwards AFB, Ca. Shot from KC-135 Tanker.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 launches from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), while underway, May 23, 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.

The 65th Aggressor Squadron commander, Lt. Col. Brandon Nauta, and Lt. Col. Michael Albrecht, fly in a two-ship F-35A Lightning II formation from Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, June 9, 2022. The F-35As were on their way to the Nevada Test and Training Range to participate in their inaugural training mission against F-15E Strike Eagles. They will be employed into large Combat Air Forces exercises, U.S. Air Force Weapons School missions, joint exercises, and operational test and evaluation events that are only conducted at Nellis Air Force Base and the Nevada Test and Training Range.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to land aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean while conducting carrier qualifications, Jan. 11, 2024. The 15th MEU is currently embarked aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 9, 2018) An F-35C Lightning II assigned to the Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 sits chained on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).

Persian Gulf, January 20, 2005 - An F-14B Tomcat sits on the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) during a no-fly day.

220610-N-XN177-2170 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 10, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 10, 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 stands ready for deployment during an Operational Readiness Inspection at Langley Air Force Base, Va., April 9, 2011. This is the first ORI for fifth generation aircraft, like the F-22 Raptor.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Airmen refuel a RAAF F-35A during a Forward Area Refueling Point (FARP) training during Black Flag 22-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, May 12, 2022. Airmen from RAAF participated in training to increase interoperability between forces at their home station.

U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 421st Fighter Generation Squadron, Hill Air Force Base (AFB), Utah, prepare to launch out and F-35 Lightning II during Red Flag-Nellis 24-1 at Nellis AFB, Nevada, Jan. 23, 2024. This Red Flag will have approximately 30 units and close to 2,000 participants from U.S. and Allied forces.

Louisiana Air National Guard Col. David Anderson, 159th Fighter Wing commander, prepares for a flight during Cope North 24 at Andersen Air Base, Guam, Feb. 20, 2024. The F-15C Eagle pilot flew a California Air National Guard aircraft maintained by a 144th Fighter Wing Crew Chief for a Cope North 24 mission that strengthens the aerial tactics and capabilities of Allied and partnered nations participating in the multinational exercise. Air Force Master Sgt. Natasha Stannard/Released)

The inbound and outbound commanders of the 154th Wing fly F-22 Raptors in formation with a KC-135 Stratotanker Sept. 7, 2022, near Oahu, Hawaii. The routine training flight served as an in-flight change of command ceremony as Brig. Gen. Dann S. Carlson relinquished command of the Air National Guard's largest Wing to Col. Phillip L. Mallory.

The U.S. Air Force F-35 Demo Team flies at the 187th Fighter Wings Family day at Dannelly Field in Montgomery, Alabama on Feb. 10, 2024. (Alabama National Guard

A Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F-35A takes off for a training mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, May 17, 2022. Its processing power, open architecture, sophisticated sensors, information fusion and flexible communication links make the F-35 an indispensable tool in future homeland defense, Joint and Coalition irregular warfare and major combat operations.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kristen Beo Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team commander with the 388th Fighter Wing, flies an F-35A Lightning II during practice for the Warriors Over the Wasatch Air and Space Show June 24, 2022, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.

Two U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron conduct a two-ship formation during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The Raptors uphold the Air Shielding mission alongside Polish F-16s and Italian Eurofighter Typhoons. The event showcased the importance of NATOs Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO Allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and postured to defend NATO territory.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft performs functionality checks before takeoff Oct. 3, 2022, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Multiple 62nd Fighter Squadron F-35As were prepared to join a B-1B Lancer assigned to the 7th Bomb Wing, Dyess AFB, Texas in formation over the United States, exercising the interoperability of the different aircraft.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II from the 60th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, prepares to take off for a training mission at Burlington Air National Guard Base, Vermont, July 14, 2022. Nomads within the 33rd Maintenance Group have been trained to perform duties in adjacent fields like low observable maintenance and aircraft launchand recovery.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, receives fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 465 Air Refueling Squadron, Tinker AFB, Okla., near Guam, Feb. 17, 2010.

A B-1B Lancer, assigned to 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, taxies past the control towers of the Darwin International Airport after landing at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, June 20, 2022. Bomber Task Force missions provide opportunities to train alongside our allies and partners to build interoperability and bolster our collective ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A Royal Australian Air Force F-35A returns from a training mission to Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Jan. 11, 2024 in preparation for Red Flag-Nellis 24-1. This Red Flag will have approximately 30 units and close to 2,000 participants from U.S. and Allied forces. Red Flag exercises to provide aircrews the experience of multiple, intensive air combat sorties in the safety of a training environment.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron takes off, Oct. 17, 2022 at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands. The 90th EFS conducted agile combat employment (ACE) and integrated with Royal Netherlands Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs and U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing in RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. Continued collaboration and integration on ACE alongside our RNLAF counterparts and other NATO Allies improves the resilience and survivability of coalition airpower.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 takes off from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1, May 2, 2022. The F-35B is the Marine Air-Ground Task Forces first choice to penetrate, punish and persist in contested environments, providing a day-one strike capability. Integrated with other U.S. and international assets, the F-35Bs tactical agility and strategic flexibility are critical to maintain a long-term decisive advantage.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alexander Blum-Ramos, a 525th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, marshals an F-22 Raptor during Polar Force 22-4 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 30, 2022. This is the first Polar Force led by the 3rd Wing, with the 673d Air Base Wing as a supporting participant. PF 22-4 provides effective, flexible and capabilities-centered forces, ready for deployment worldwide, and enables real-world proficiency in response to variety crises.

Two U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor fighter jets assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxi 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 199/19th 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.

F-22 Raptor of the United States Air Force.

Two U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron conduct a two-ship formation during the NATO Air Shielding media day, Oct. 12, 2022 at Łask Air Base, Poland. The Raptors uphold the Air Shielding mission alongside Polish F-16s and Italian Eurofighter Typhoons. The event showcased the importance of NATOs Air Shielding mission and the interoperability among the U.S. and NATO Allies to international media through trilateral aerial demonstrations and interviews with service members. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO Alliance and postured to defend NATO territory.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Melanie MACH Kluesner, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team pilot and commander, taxis off the runway after being certified on her aerial demonstration by the 388th Wing commander at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Feb. 22, 2024. Upon wing commander certification, the F-35 Demo Team pilot is required to complete the Air Combat Command Heritage Flight Training Course. Air Force

220804-N-VJ326-1260 PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 4, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) lands on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 4, 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Matthew Hester, left, the assistant operations officer and Maj. Stephen Davis the operations officer both with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, observe an F-35B Lightning II 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.

220615-N-XN177-3098 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to land on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 15, 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.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (April 18, 2020) An F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). VMM-265 (Rein.), with F-35Bs from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, is currently serving as the aviation combat element for the 31st MEU. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU team, 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 stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (Marine Corps

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Mario Bautista, left, and Senior Airman Joseph Santos, both assigned to the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, perform pre-flight checks on a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley, Australia, in support of a Bomber Task Force training exercise, July 26, 2022. BTF missions contribute to joint force and multi-lateral lethality, deterring aggression in the Indo-Pacific by demonstrating our ability to operate anywhere in the world.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to Langley AFB is refueled by the 32nd Air Refueling Squadron, 305th Air Mobility Wing, during a readiness exercise over the Atlantic Ocean , Apr. 5, 2022. Training exercises reinforce Airmen readiness and deliberately strengthen Air Mobility Commands warfighting culture in order to provide unrivaled Rapid Global Mobility capable of protecting and sustaining the Joint Force.

Two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lighting IIs assigned to the 354th Fighter Wing fly over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, April 14, 2022. With the arrival of the last two jets, the 354th Fighter Wing completed a two-year buildup, resulting in two additional operational flying squadrons comprised of 54 permanently-assigned, combat-coded F-35A aircraft.

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-22 Raptor, 49th Fighter Wing, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., pulls up for air refueling over the Nevada Test and Training Range during Red Flag 11-3, March 2, 2011. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. The exercise is hosted north of Las Vegas on the Nevada Test and Training Range.

A visiting U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II stands ready on the 173rd Fighter Wing ramp waiting for the sun to climb a little higher before winging its way to nearby ranges for training, Oct. 12, 2022. The 63rd Fighter Squadron from Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., brought 14 aircraft and flew nearly 500 hours over a 13-day period, increasing their capacity to train student pilots by utilizing Kingsleys large and accessible air space.

A U.S. Air Force crew chief assigned to the 154th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron salutes an F-22 Raptor pilot as he taxis onto the flightline at Kadena Air Base, Japan, June 6, 2022. Aircraft, aircrew and ground personnel from the 154th Wing conducti missions out of Kadena in support of the ongoing commitment to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

040929-M-5607G-012. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxi the flight line at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 13, 2022. U.S. Marines with VMFA-121 are conducting Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations from the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) in support of exercise Valiant Shield 2022. Exercise Valiant Shield gives units like VMFA-121 the opportunity to integrate with forces across the Indo-Pacific to train in successful employment and operations that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Force.

A U.S. Air Force Airman marshals an F-35 Lightning II back into its hangar during exercise Falcon Strike 2022 at Amendola Air Base, Italy, Nov. 17, 2022. Falcon Strike 22 gave multiple NATO nations an opportunity to share knowledge and operational procedures with one another.

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