Modern Military Aircraft Operations

U.S. Air Force and Navy aircraft, including F-22s and F-35s, in various stages of operation, emphasizing advanced military aviation technology.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron, 3rd Wing, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska takes off from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 4, 2022. The F-22 Raptor will support a NATO Air Shielding mission that integrates Allied Air and Surface Based Air and Missile Defense units into the NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense system under NATO Command and Control in the European Theater.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam prepares to taxi at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 18, 2022. At any time, Pacific Air Forces Airmen and aircraft can operate and fly anywhere international law allows.

The F-22 and fighter pilot, Maj. Chad Motor” Feucht, 302nd Fighter Squadron, taxis the flightline before departing for Andersen Air Force Base, Guam

A U.S. Navy sailor walks to an F-35C Lightning II assigned to the Strike Fighter Squadron 147, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, during Red Flag-Nellis 22-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 12, 2022. Participants conduct a variety of scenarios, including defensive and offensive counter-air interdiction.

A U.S. Marine Corp Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 225 ordnance technician checks an F-35B Lightning II during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-3 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, July 29, 2022. RF-A is a Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise for U.S. and international forces and is designed to provide realistic air combat training and enhance bilateral interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to 15th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron inspect a U.S. 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 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.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron, 3rd Wing, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska takes off from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 4, 2022. The F-22 Raptor will support a NATO Air Shielding mission that integrates Allied Air and Surface Based Air and Missile Defense units into the NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense system under NATO Command and Control in the European Theater.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 388th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, takes off from Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 28, 2022 after conducting Agile Combat Employment operations at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. ACE is a new warfighting concept that U.S. Pacific Air Forces is operationalizing to ensure agility, deterrence, and resiliency in a contested or degraded environment.

221020-N-XN177-2112 EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 20, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) launches from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 20, 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-35A Lightning II taxies down a runway at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 11, 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 the Korean Peninsula.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, approaches a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, to receive aerial refueling over the Indo-Pacific theater, Sept. 28, 2022. Pacific Air Forces utilize various aircraft to maintain a flexible theater posture to enhance its ability to provide the Department of Defense options to support our allies and partners in a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle takes flight as an F-35A Lightning II prepares for shutdown after a training sortie at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, September 22, 2022. The F-35 squadron from Luke Air Force Base, AZ use Mountain Home AFB for the terrain and airspace in order to practice simulated combat scenarios.

A U.S. F-35 Lightning II, approaches a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, Kadena AB, for aerial refueling, June 10, 2022. Kadena Air Base regularly hosts visiting joint, allied and partner forces to conduct missions to enhance our operational readiness to defend Japan and ensure a free-and-open Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dominic Youngren, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, prepares to send off an F-35B Lightning II aircraft with VMFA-242 for 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.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II from the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, lands after a training mission during Northern Lightning at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 15, 2022. Nomads integrated 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 battle space.

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, prepares for takeoff at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 18, 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.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron takes off at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Oct. 19, 2022. The F-35 is a fifth-generation fighter that features advanced stealth, sensor fusion and logistics support capabilities, which provide increased survivability in an advanced threat environment.

An F-35B Lightning II during preflight checks at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 525th Fighter Squadron from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, flies away after refueling from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron from Kadena Air Base, Japan, during exercise Northern Edge, May 16, 2019, over Alaska. Northern Edge is designed to sharpen participants tactical combat skills, to improve command, control and communication relationships and to develop plans and programs across the Joint Force.

220525-N-XN177-1173 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.

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.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 421st Fighter Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, poses for a photo while taxiing at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam after returning from conducting Agile Combat Employment (ACE) rehearsals, June 29, 2022. ACE shifts operations from centralized physical infrastructures to a network of smaller, dispersed locations that can complicate adversary planning and provide more options for joint force commanders.

USAF Lockheed F-117 Stealth Fighter with Operation Iraqi Freedom OIF mission markings. Ground shot at Nellis AFB.

A U.S. F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th Air Expeditionary Wing takes off from Palau International Airport in support of Valiant Shield 22, June 12, 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-35A Lightning II taxies as a part of Exercise Agile Tiger on Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri on April 4, 2022. Exercise Agile Tiger is designed to enhance our ability to communicate, collaborate, and operate with our joint service partners.

F-35 stealth fighter jet during a NATO exercise by the US Air Force

An F-22 Raptor performs a refueling with a KC-135 Stratotanker during a training mission Aug. 7, 2014, near Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. The F-22 is designed to project air dominance, rapidly and at great distances. The F-22 is assigned to the 525th Fighter Squadron and the KC-135 is from McConnell Air Force Base, Kan.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 prepare to load a GBU-12 Paveway II laser guided bomb into an F-35B Lightning II aircraft, embarked aboard the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, to participate in a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Master Sgt. Shawn Pangborn, 154th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, F-22 Raptor crew chief from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii salutes as an F-22 departs the hangar Nov. 23, 2014, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. A C-17 Globemaster III along with several F-22s operated from Andersen to practice flexibility in aircraft movement at a non-traditional base with additional pilots, maintenance support and accompanying fuel and munitions.

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, super-cruise, maneuverability, and integrated avionics, coupled with improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in war-fighting 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.

An F-22 Raptor soars through the sky during its arrival ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, July 9, 2010. The F-22, the Air Force's newest aircraft, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities for U.S. forces in the Pacific.

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. Combined training demonstrates our commitmient to the defense of South Korea and is the foundation of maintaining a robust defense posture.

A 2- ship of U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors, 49th Fighter Wing, Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., fly 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 assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis for 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.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, receives fuel from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, over the Indo-Pacific theater, Sept. 28, 2022. U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps aircrews routinely train together to enhance bilateral interoperability in support of the defense of Japan while securing a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

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 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.

220805-N-XN177-1464 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 5, 2022) - F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) land on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 5, 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-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.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 388th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, takes off from Yokota Air Base, Japan, July 28, 2022 after conducting Agile Combat Employment operations at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. ACE is a new warfighting concept that U.S. Pacific Air Forces is operationalizing to ensure agility, deterrence, and resiliency in a contested or degraded environment.

970409-F-0000S-003. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An F-22 Raptor pulls away from a KC-135 Stratotanker after refueling off of the East Coast on May 10, 2012. On Dec. 15, 2005, the Air Combat Command commander, along with the 1st Fighter Wing commander, announced the 27th Fighter Squadron as fully operational and capable to fly, fight and win with the F-22. The F-22 is with the 1st Fighter Wing at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., and the KC-135 is with the 756th Air Refueling Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Md.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II, assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, lands for the first time at Souda Air Base, Greece, July 7, 2022. The fifth-generation aircraft will be participating in exercise Poseidons Rage, in an effort to bolster U.S.-Hellenic readiness and interoperability.

Six F-22 Raptors fly in formation during a training mission from Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

970409-F-0000S-004. Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Teagan McArthur, 154th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, runs pre-flight checks on an F-22 Raptor prior to taxiing at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Northern Territory, Australia, Aug. 30, 2022. Pacific Air Forces Airmen and aircraft operate throughout the Indo-Pacific to help maintain an international rules-based order.

A U.S. Air Force maintainer with the 33rd Fighter Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, watched as 33rd FW F-35A Lightning II aircraft depart for a mission at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin, Aug. 18, 2022. Volk Field offered open airspace with optimal weather conditions for flying, allowing the 33rd FW to avoid over 60% of seasonal lightning and hurricane delays in Florida.

A pair of F-22 Raptors pulls away and flies behind a KC-135 Stratotanker after receiving fuel off of the East Coast on July 10, 2012. The 1st Fighter Wing at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., received their first two Raptors in January 2005 and the wings 27th Fighter Squadron was designated as fully operational in December 2005. The Raptors belong to the 27th FS and the KC-135 belongs to the 756th Air Refueling Squadron at Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility, Md.

An F-15 Eagle aircraft lands at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, during Operation SOUTHERN WATCH. The Aircraft is part of the coalition forces of the 363rd Air Expeditionary Wing, Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, that enforces the no-fly and no-drive zone in Southern Iraq to protect and defend against Iraqi aggression. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Base: Prince Sultan Air Base Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 355th Aircraft Maintenance Unit perform an engine run on an F-35A Lightning II during a mini-generation on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 28, 2022. Mini-generation is an exercise that allows the practice of Agile Combat Employment capabilities. ACE is an operational concept executed within threat timelines to increase survivability while generating combat power.

Four U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepare to taxi for takeoff to integrate and train with Royal Netherlands Air Force and U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs, Oct. 18, 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 18, 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.

A U.S. Air Force F-22A Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing, takes off from Kadena Air Base, Japan, Nov. 17, 2022. Kadena Air Base's strategic position makes it a vital staging location for forces to deter regional adversaries and project U.S. airpower throughout the Indo-Pacific.

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.

An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, participates in an air power demonstration during a friends and family day on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

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 Team will 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.

Two F-22 Raptors from the 49th Fighter Wing manuever while on a training mission out of Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 24, 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.

221020-N-XN177-2060 EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 20, 2022) - Aviation Boatswains Mate (Aircraft Handling) 3rd Class Milton Sallee, from Owensborough, Kentucky, signals for an F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) to launch from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 20, 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.

Three 37th Tactical Fighter Wing (37th TFW) F-117A aircraft are serviced by ground crews during Operation Desert Shield. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Saudi Arabia (SAU)

Pilots with the 60th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, prepare to conduct a flyover at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida, Sept. 25, 2022. Flyovers allow pilots to further their tactical expertise and serve as a recruiting tool to influence the newest generations of U.S. Airmen.

A B-2 Spirit taxis onto the flightline July 14, 2011, at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., ending a week-long surge that tested Whiteman AFB's ability to hot-pit refuel the B-2 while continuously generating sorties. Active duty Airmen, guardsmen and reservists participated in the surge.

Pilots with the 60th Fighter Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing, prepare to conduct a flyover at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida, Sept. 25, 2022. Flyovers allow pilots to further their tactical expertise and serve as a recruiting tool to influence the newest generations of U.S. Airmen.

An F-22 Raptor from the 95th Fighter Squadron based at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., flies over Tallinn, Estonia, Sept. 4, 2015. The Air Force deployed four F-22s, a C-17 Globemaster III and approximately 60 Airmen and their associated equipment to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. While the aircraft and Airmen are in Europe, they will conduct air training with other Europe-based aircraft.

US Air ForceF-117 Stealth Fighter

A U.S. Air Force crew chief with the 192nd Fighter Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, salutes the pilot of a F-22 Raptor prior to launch May 3, 2022, at the Air Dominance Center, Combat Readiness Training. Center, in Savannah, Georgia. Sentry Savannah 2022 is the Air National Guards premier counter air exercise, encompassing 10 units of fourth and fifth generation fighter aircraft, which tests the capabilities of our warfighters in a simulated near-peer environment and trains the next generation of fighter pilots for tomorrows fight.

The U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, assigned to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, demonstrates the capabilities of the F-35 during Aero India 23 at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru, India, Feb. 15, 2023. The weeklong biennial exhibition is Asias largest aviation event and hosts government delegations and corporate executives from 26 countries. The U.S. military is participating in Aero India by providing aerial demonstrations and static aircraft to strengthen its partnership with India while furthering military-to-military relationships.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter jet assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis on the runway during an agile combat employment training event at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 15, 2022. The 356th EFS and the 199th EFS traveled to Iwakuni as components of the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing to refine fifth-generation integration tactics, techniques and procedures.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 225, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7) as part of the U.S. Marine Corps lightning carrier concept demonstration off the coast of Southern California, April 3, 2022. The lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation short takeoff/vertical landing aircraft wherever they are required. This was the first time maximum capacity F-35B Lightning II aircraft were tested for operation aboard a landing helicopter assault (LHA) amphibious assault ship.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jacob Dastas, 325th Fighter Wing public affairs journeyman, photographs a F-22 Raptor assigned tothe 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, 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.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing takes off during Polar Force 22-4 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 30, 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.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th Air Expeditionary Wing takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, for Agile Combat Employment training, June 7, 2022. ACE is Pacific Air Forces model to project combat power via a network of distributed operating locations throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

221020-N-XN177-2127 EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 20, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) launches from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 20, 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-35A Lightning II with the 421st Fighter Squadron prepares for takeoff during Exercise Agile Tiger on April 4, 2022, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Exercise Agile Tiger tests the joint force that we can posture, equip, sustain, move and maneuver, and command and control deliberately trained Airmen across a network of bases to complicate adversary targeting, preserve combat power, and fight from a position of advantage.

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 27th Fighter Squadron, Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, takes off during Red Flag-Nellis 22-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 11, 2022 Blue Force teams participating in RF-N 22-3 will consist of the most advanced fifth-generation, long range targeting aircraft and space assets yet.

220524-N-TT639-2089 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 24, 2022) - Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 1st Class Paul Salame, from St. Clair Shores, Michigan, signals for an F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 to launch from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 24, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 7th Fleet.

030926-F-9104W-018. Base: Tyndall Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AETC

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, director, Air National Guard, taxis a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber out of its hangar at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, May 14, 2022. Loh visited Whiteman to observe training and operations involving total force integration and combat readiness.

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, sit on the flight line during Weapons System Evaluation Program-East 22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 14, 2022. WSEP-E 22.12 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.

509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, maintainers and crew chiefs, prepare B-2 Stealth Bombers for Operation Odyssey Dawn March 19, 2011.

The sun sets behind an Australian F-35A Lighting II at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., June 27, 2018. The first Australian F-35 arrived at Luke AFB in December, 2014. Currently, six Australian F-35's are assigned to the 61st Fighter Squadron where their pilots train alongside U.S. Air Force pilots. *Editors Note: The reflection in this photo was manufactured by the photographer using a specific technique outside of the lens before capturing the image.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 conducts post flight checks at Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 10, 2022. U.S. 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. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, take a knee in front of a U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor during a Joint Air-Ground Task Force Demonstration as part of the 2022 Kaneohe Bay Air Show, Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 13, 2022. The air show provided an opportunity to showcase the aircraft, equipment and capabilities of the armed forces to the local community. The Kaneohe Bay Air Show, which contained aerial performances, static displays, demonstrations and vendors, was designed to celebrate MCBHs longstanding relationship with the local community.

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor pilot, Capt. Swiss” Ritschard, left, and Airmen 1st Class Thatcher Deese, crew chief, both assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, guide an F-22 Raptor to park during Ritschard’s ‘Crew Chief for a Day’ immersion at Łask Air Base, Poland, Sept. 5, 2022. ‘Crew Chief for a Day” allows pilots to embed with maintenance personnel through daily tasks such as inspections, recovery, and refueling. The immersion helps to bolster morale and team building within the squadron. The 90th’s presence in the region strengthens U.S. and NATO’s unity each day as forces come together to train and deter in an ever-evolving threat environment.

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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 28, 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 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.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis the flight line after arriving to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 28, 2022. U.S. Marines with VMFA-121, VMFA-242, and Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533 conducted live-fire missile exercise to increase weapon proficiency and enhance squadrons combat readiness in the air-to-air environment.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kristin "BEO" Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team Pilot and Commander, performs the "tactical pitch" maneuver during the Oregon International Air Show at Hillsboro Airport, Ore., May 20, 2022. The "She Flies with Her Own Wings" air show was considered an all-female air show, to include female performers, maintenance personnel, emcees, and air bosses.

A U.S. F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th Air Expeditionary Wing takes off from Palau International Airport in support of Valiant Shield 22, June 12, 2022. VS22 is a U.S.-only, biennial field training exercise focused on integration of joint training in a multi-domain environment. This training builds real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron sits on the flightline during Agile Combat Employment training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 22, 2022. Exercises and operations incorporating ACE concepts ensure forward-deployed forces in the Indo-Pacific are ready to protect and defend the United States and its allied and partner interests at a moments notice

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Duke Pirak, left, deputy director, Air National Guard, gets an up-close introduction to the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber during a visit to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, Feb. 1, 2024. Total Force Airmen with the 131st and 509th Bomb Wings work side-by-side to execute the B-2s strategic deterrence and global strike mission any time, anywhere. Air National Guard

Clouds move behind an F-35C Lightning II assigned to the Strike Fighter Squadron 147, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, during Red Flag-Nellis 22-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 12, 2022. The Nevada Test and Training Range is the U.S. Air Forces premier military training area with more than 12,000 square miles of airspace and 2.9 million acres of land.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Adam Sickles, a crew chief with the 192nd maintenance squadron at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia Air National Guard, cleans and checks the cockpit windshield of an F-22 Raptor in Savannah, Georgia on May 4, 2022 for Sentry Savannah. Sentry Savannah is a 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.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Brent Osman, 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron crew chief, prepares an F-22 Raptor for take-off in support of the NATO Air Shielding Mission at Łask Air Base, Poland, Aug. 7, 2022. The NATO Air Shielding mission is a multinational effort and a long-term deterrence and defense posture.

An F-22 Raptor from Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., touches down on the flightline at Tyndall Nov. 5, 2015. The F-22s combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability and integrated avionics, in addition to improved supportability, represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities and allows for the full realization of operational concepts that are vital to the 21st century Air Force.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing lands during Polar Force 22-4 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 30, 2022. Polar Force was designed to develop the skills service members require when facing adverse situations and austere conditions, while demonstrating the Agile Combat Employments multiple-location concept. ACE exercises train Airmen to operate from locations with varying levels of capacity and support to emphasize the ability to deploy, survive, operate, maneuver, sustain, and regenerate in a simulated contested environment.

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