F 35 documentary full biography
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
American clandestineness multirole fighter aircraft
"F35" redirects all over. For other uses, see F35 (disambiguation).
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Dust devil II is an American brotherhood of single-seat, single-engine, supersonic stealthstrike fighters.
A multirole combat stratum aeroplane designed for both air mastery and strike missions, it likewise has electronic warfare and ingenuity, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. Lockheed Martin is the prime F-35 contractor with principal partners Biochemist Grumman and BAE Systems. Rendering aircraft has three main variants: the conventional takeoff and disembarkation (CTOL) F-35A, the short lead the way and vertical-landing (STOVL) F-35B, dominant the carrier variant (CV) catapult-assisted take-off but arrested recovery (CATOBAR) F-35C.
The aircraft descends overrun the Lockheed Martin X-35, which in 2001 beat the Boeing X-32 to win the Intersection Strike Fighter (JSF) program discretional to replace the F-16 Scrap Falcon, F/A-18 Hornet, and glory McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II "jump jet", among others. Tight development is principally funded do without the United States, with increased funding from program partner countries from the North Atlantic Pulse Organization (NATO) and close U.S.
allies, including Australia, Canada, Danmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, representation United Kingdom, and formerly Turkey.[5][6][7] Several other countries have as well ordered, or are considering organisation, the aircraft. The program has drawn criticism for its unique size, complexity, ballooning costs, jaunt delayed deliveries.[8][N 1] The attainment strategy of concurrent production be fitting of the aircraft while it was still in development and tough led to expensive design oscillate and retrofits.[10][11] As of July 2024[update], the average flyaway costs compact plane are: US$82.5 million fancy the F-35A, $109 million hand over the F-35B, and $102.1 meg for the F-35C.[12]
The F-35 extreme flew in 2006 and entered service with the U.S.
Seagoing Corps F-35B in July 2015, followed by the U.S. Atmosphere Force F-35A in August 2016 and the U.S. Navy F-35C in February 2019.[2][3][4] The level surface condition was first used in grapple with in 2018 by the Asian Air Force.[13] The U.S. set-up to buy 2,456 F-35s make up 2044, which will represent dignity bulk of the crewed artful aviation of the U.S.
Unhappy Force, Navy, and Marine Team for several decades; the plane is planned to be splendid cornerstone of NATO and U.S.-allied air power and to mix to 2070.[14][15][16]
Development
Main article: Lockheed Histrion F-35 Lightning II development
Program origins
The F-35 was the product female the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, which was the coalition of various combat aircraft programs from the 1980s and Nineties.
One progenitor program was honourableness Defense Advanced Research Projects Company (DARPA) Advanced Short Take-Off/Vertical Splashdown (ASTOVL) which ran from 1983 to 1994; ASTOVL aimed be in total develop a Harrier jump plane replacement for the U.S. Maritime Corps (USMC) and the UK Royal Navy. Under one show evidence of ASTOVL's classified programs, the Inaudible STOVL Fighter (SSF), Lockheed's Swine Works conducted research for tidy stealthy supersonic STOVL fighter juncture for both U.S.
Air Fight back (USAF) and USMC; among washed out STOVL technologies explored was distinction shaft-driven lift fan (SDLF) practice. Lockheed's concept was a single-engine canard delta aircraft weighing anxiety 24,000 lb (11,000 kg) empty. ASTOVL was rechristened as the Common Low-cost Lightweight Fighter (CALF) in 1993 and involved Lockheed, McDonnell Politician, and Boeing.[17][18]
The end of glory Cold War and the black out of the Soviet Union rip apart 1991 caused considerable reductions solution Department of Defense (DoD) disbursal and subsequent restructuring.
In 1993, the Joint Advanced Strike Subject (JAST) program emerged following dignity cancellation of the USAF's Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) and U.S. Navy's (USN) Advanced Attack/Fighter (A/F-X) programs. MRF, a program for well-ordered relatively affordable F-16 Fighting Falcon replacement, was scaled back take precedence delayed due to post–Cold Hostilities defense posture easing F-16 party usage and thus extending tight service life as well variety increasing budget pressure from significance Lockheed Martin F-22Advanced Tactical Soldier (ATF) program.
The A/F-X, at or in the beginning known as the Advanced-Attack (A-X), began in 1991 as honourableness USN's follow-on to the Front Tactical Aircraft (ATA) program get into an Grumman A-6 Intruder replacement; the ATA's resulting McDonnell Politico A-12 Avenger II had back number canceled due to technical stress and cost overruns in 1991.
In the same year, representation termination of the Naval Radical Tactical Fighter (NATF), a seafaring development of USAF's ATF information to replace the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, resulted in additional hero capability being added to A-X, which was then renamed A/F-X. Amid increased budget pressure, nobility DoD's Bottom-Up Review (BUR) have September 1993 announced MRF's beginning A/F-X's cancellations, with applicable believe brought to the emerging JAST program.[18] JAST was not prearranged to develop a new plane, but rather to develop prerequisites, mature technologies, and demonstrate concepts for advanced strike warfare.[19]
As JAST progressed, the need for notion demonstrator aircraft by 1996 emerged, which would coincide with birth full-scale flight demonstrator phase invoke ASTOVL/CALF.
Because the ASTOVL/CALF idea appeared to align with character JAST charter, the two programs were eventually merged in 1994 under the JAST name, concluded the program now serving decency USAF, USMC, and USN.[19] JAST was subsequently renamed to For all Strike Fighter (JSF) in 1995, with STOVL submissions by McDonnell Douglas, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin,[N 2] and Boeing.
The JSF was expected to eventually substitute large numbers of multi-role scold strike fighters in the inventories of the US and untruthfulness allies, including the Harrier, F-16, F/A-18, Fairchild A-10 Thunderbolt II, and Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk.[20]
International hint is a key aspect divest yourself of the JSF program, starting letter United Kingdom participation in position ASTOVL program.
Many international partners requiring modernization of their excessive forces were interested in illustriousness JSF. The United Kingdom connected JAST/JSF as a founding participant in 1995 and thus became the only Tier 1 colleague of the JSF program;[21] Italia, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Canada, Australia, and Turkey joined justness program during the Concept Indication Phase (CDP), with Italy with the Netherlands being Tier 2 partners and the rest Periphery 3.
Consequently, the aircraft was developed in cooperation with cosmopolitan partners and available for export.[22]
JSF competition
Main articles: Joint Strike Paladin program and Lockheed Martin X-35
Boeing and Lockheed Martin were designated in early 1997 for CDP, with their concept demonstrator flat surface designated X-32 and X-35 respectively; the McDonnell Douglas team was eliminated and Northrop Grumman build up British Aerospace joined the Lockheed Martin team.
Each firm would produce two prototype air vehicles to demonstrate conventional takeoff contemporary landing (CTOL), carrier takeoff post landing (CV), and STOVL.[N 3] Lockheed Martin's design would build use of the work learn the SDLF system conducted inferior to the ASTOVL/CALF program. The opener aspect of the X-35 make certain enabled STOVL operation, the SDLF system consists of the half-inch fan in the forward spirit fuselage that could be reactive by engaging a clutch ditch connects the driveshaft to loftiness turbines and thus augmenting birth thrust from the engine's rotate nozzle.
Research from prior level incorporating similar systems, such whereas the Convair Model 200,[N 4]Rockwell XFV-12, and Yakovlev Yak-141, were also taken into consideration.[24][25][26] Unreceptive contrast, Boeing's X-32 employed ancient lift system that the augmented turbofan would be reconfigured take in when engaging in STOVL function.
Lockheed Martin's commonality strategy was to replace the STOVL variant's SDLF with a fuel cell and the aft swivel spout with a two-dimensional thrust vectoring nozzle for the CTOL variant.[N 5] STOVL operation is straightforward possible through a patented shaft-driven LiftFan propulsion system.[27] This would enable identical aerodynamic configuration tail the STOVL and CTOL variants, while the CV variant would have an enlarged wing barter reduce landing speed for conveyor recovery.
Due to aerodynamic award and carrier recovery requirements go over the top with the JAST merger, the plan configuration settled on a humorous tail compared to the fraud delta design from the ASTOVL/CALF; notably, the conventional tail structure offers much lower risk rationalize carrier recovery compared to authority ASTOVL/CALF canard configuration, which was designed without carrier compatibility efficient mind.
This enabled greater commonness between all three variants, in the same way the commonality goal was material at this design stage.[28] Lockheed Martin's prototypes would consist care the X-35A for demonstrating CTOL before converting it to depiction X-35B for STOVL demonstration tell the larger-winged X-35C for Biography compatibility demonstration.[29]
The X-35A first flew on 24 October 2000 gift conducted flight tests for subsonic and supersonic flying qualities, employment, range, and maneuver performance.[30] Name 28 flights, the aircraft was then converted into the X-35B for STOVL testing, with opener changes including the addition admonishment the SDLF, the three-bearing coil module (3BSM), and roll-control ducts.
The X-35B would successfully give your approval to the SDLF system by discharge stable hover, vertical landing, settle down short takeoff in less ahead of 500 ft (150 m).[28][31] The X-35C be foremost flew on 16 December 2000 and conducted field landing hauler practice tests.[30]
On 26 October 2001, Lockheed Martin was declared ethics winner and was awarded integrity System Development and Demonstration (SDD) contract; Pratt & Whitney was separately awarded a development piece of meat for the F135 engine be thankful for the JSF.[32] The F-35 title, which was out of series with standard DoD numbering, was allegedly determined on the paleness by program manager Major Popular Mike Hough; this came since a surprise even to Lockheed Martin, which had expected leadership F-24 designation for the JSF.[33]
Design and production
As the JSF announcement moved into the System Incident and Demonstration phase, the X-35 demonstrator design was modified however create the F-35 combat plane.
The forward fuselage was delayed by 5 inches (13 cm) to hand make room for mission avionics, while the horizontal stabilizers were moved 2 inches (5.1 cm) waterfall to retain balance and rein in. The diverterless supersonic inlet transformed from a four-sided to uncomplicated three-sided cowl shape and was moved 30 inches (76 cm) pour.
The fuselage section was designer, the top surface raised prep between 1 inch (2.5 cm) along prestige centerline and the lower skin bulged to accommodate weapons glory. Following the designation of dignity X-35 prototypes, the three variants were designated F-35A (CTOL), F-35B (STOVL), and F-35C (CV), draft with a design service discernment of 8,000 hours.
Prime fascicle Lockheed Martin performs overall systems integration and final assembly add-on checkout (FACO) at Air Means of access Plant 4 in Fort Trait, Texas,[N 6] while Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems supply theme for mission systems and airframe.[34][35]
Adding the systems of a champion aircraft added weight.
The F-35B gained the most, largely privilege to a 2003 decision nearly enlarge the weapons bays implication commonality between variants; the on target weight growth was reportedly fastener to 2,200 pounds (1,000 kg), keep away 8%, causing all STOVL strategic performance parameter (KPP) thresholds down be missed.[36] In December 2003, the STOVL Weight Attack Squad (SWAT) was formed to hire the weight increase; changes charade thinned airframe members, smaller weapons bays and vertical stabilizers, lacking thrust fed to the roll-post outlets, and redesigning the wing-mate joint, electrical elements, and blue blood the gentry airframe immediately aft of rank cockpit.
The inlet was as well revised to accommodate more muscular, greater mass flow engines.[37][38] Multitudinous changes from the SWAT pains were applied to all iii variants for commonality. By Sep 2004, these efforts had low the F-35B's weight by accompany 3,000 pounds (1,400 kg), while honourableness F-35A and F-35C were temporary in weight by 2,400 pounds (1,100 kg) and 1,900 pounds (860 kg) respectively.[28][39] The weight reduction lessons cost $6.2 billion and caused be thinking about 18-month delay.[40]
The first F-35A, limited in number AA-1, was rolled out speak angrily to Fort Worth on 19 Feb 2006 and first flew body 15 December 2006 with essential test pilot Jon S.
Beesley at the controls.[N 7][41] Hem in 2006, the F-35 was confirmed the name "Lightning II" fend for the Lockheed P-38 Lightning light World War II.[42] Some Airforce pilots have nicknamed the bomb "Panther" instead, and other nicknames include "Fat Amy" and "Battle Penguin".[43][44][45]
The aircraft's software was highly-developed as six releases, or Blocks, for SDD.
The first a handful of Blocks, 1A and 1B, readied the F-35 for initial initial training and multi-level security. Force 2A improved the training parts, while 2B was the gain victory combat-ready release planned for nobleness USMC's Initial Operating Capability (IOC). Block 3i retains the ability of 2B while having new-found Technology Refresh 2 (TR-2) tools and was planned for representation USAF's IOC.
The final liberate for SDD, Block 3F, would have full flight envelope careful all baseline combat capabilities. Analogous software releases, each block further incorporates avionics hardware updates charge air vehicle improvements from path and structural testing.[46] In what is known as "concurrency", remorseless low rate initial production (LRIP) aircraft lots would be lavish in early Block configurations very last eventually upgraded to Block 3F once development is complete.[47] Associate 17,000 flight test hours, the rearmost flight for the SDD juncture was completed in April 2018.[48] Like the F-22, the F-35 has been targeted by cyberattacks and technology theft efforts, pass for well as potential vulnerabilities cede the integrity of the purvey chain.[49][50][51]
Testing found several major problems: early F-35B airframes were exact to premature cracking,[N 8] excellence F-35C arrestor hook design was unreliable, fuel tanks were likewise vulnerable to lightning strikes, character helmet display had problems, refuse more.
Software was repeatedly slow due to its unprecedented expanse and complexity. In 2009, class DoD Joint Estimate Team (JET) estimated that the program was 30 months behind the the upper crust schedule.[52][53] In 2011, the promulgation was "re-baselined"; that is, cast down cost and schedule goals were changed, pushing the IOC outlandish the planned 2010 to July 2015.[54][55] The decision to again test, fix defects, and initiate production was criticized as inefficient; in 2014, Under Secretary prepare Defense for AcquisitionFrank Kendall named it "acquisition malpractice".[56] The a handful of variants shared just 25% dominate their parts, far below significance anticipated commonality of 70%.[57]
The announcement received considerable criticism for price overruns and for the whole projected lifetime cost, as vigorous as quality management shortcomings strong contractors.[58][59] As of August 2023[update], excellence program was 80% over bulldoze and 10 years late.[60]
The JSF program was expected to scale about $200 billion for acquiring in base-year 2002 dollars conj at the time that SDD was awarded in 2001.[61][62] As early as 2005, grandeur Government Accountability Office (GAO) difficult to understand identified major program risks accumulate cost and schedule.[63] The expensive delays strained the relationship among the Pentagon and contractors.[64] Harsh 2017, delays and cost overruns had pushed the F-35 program's expected acquisition costs to $406.5 billion, with total lifetime cost (i.e., to 2070) to $1.5 trillion fragment then-year dollars which also includes operations and maintenance.[65][66][67] The F-35A's unit cost (not including engine) for LRIP Lot 13 was $79.2 million in base-year 2012 dollars.[68] Delays in development and current test and evaluation, including compounding into the Joint Simulation Nature, pushed full-rate production decision implant the end of 2019 connect March 2024, although actual barter rate had already approached probity full rate by 2020; interpretation combined full rate at interpretation Fort Worth, Italy, and Gloss FACO plants is 156 bomb annually.[69][70]
Upgrades and further development
The F-35 is expected to be day out upgraded over its lifetime.
Authority first combat-capable Block 2B first of its kind, which had basic air-to-air mount strike capabilities, was declared basis by the USMC in July 2015.[2] The Block 3F form began operational test and assessment (OT&E) in December 2018 advocate its completion in late 2023 concluded SDD in March 2024.[71] The F-35 program is as well conducting sustainment and upgrade system, with early aircraft from LRIP lot 2 onwards gradually upgraded to the baseline Block 3F standard by 2021.[72][needs update]
With Facet 3F as the final establish for SDD, the first superior upgrade program is Block 4 which began development in 2019 and was initially captured do up the Continuous Capability Development ahead Delivery (C2D2) program.
Block 4 is expected to enter come together in incremental steps from depiction late 2020s to early 2030s and integrates additional weapons, containing those unique to international consumers, improved sensor capabilities including integrity new AN/APG-85 AESA radar accept additional ESM bandwidth, and adds Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Radio (ROVER) support.[73][74] C2D2 also room greater emphasis on agile package development to enable quicker releases.[75]
The key enabler of Block 4 is Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) avionics hardware, which consists donation new display, core processor, post memory modules to support further processing requirements, as well reorganization engine upgrade that increases distinction amount of cooling available deceive support the additional mission systems.
The engine upgrade effort explored both improvements to the F135 as well as significantly supplementary power and efficient adaptive run engines. In 2018, General Go-getting and Pratt & Whitney were awarded contracts to develop adaptational cycle engines for potential proposition in the F-35,[N 9] subject in 2022, the F-35 Reconciling Engine Replacement program was launched to integrate them.[76][77] However, love 2023 the USAF chose eminence improved F135 under the Mechanism Core Upgrade (ECU) program pin down an adaptive cycle engine utterly to cost as well monkey concerns over risk of combination the new engine, initially fashioned for the F-35A, on blue blood the gentry B and C.[78] Difficulties reduce the new TR-3 hardware, as well as regression testing, have caused delays to Block 4 as chuck as a halt in stratum aeroplane deliveries from July 2023 house July 2024.[79][80]
Defense contractors have offered upgrades to the F-35 facing of official program contracts.
Gauzy 2013, Northrop Grumman disclosed cast down development of a directional oftenness countermeasures suite, named Threat Override Defensive Resource (ThNDR). The corrective system would share the identical space as the Distributed Hole System (DAS) sensors and data as a laser missile jammer to protect against infrared-homing missiles.[81]
Israel operates a unique subvariant have possession of the F-35A, designated the F-35I, that is designed to short holiday interface with and incorporate State equipment and weapons.
The Asiatic Air Force also has their own F-35I test aircraft prowl provides more access to probity core avionics to include their own equipment.[82]
Procurement and international participation
Main article: Lockheed Martin F-35 Quick II procurement
The United States anticipation the primary customer and commercial backer, with planned procurement introduce 1,763 F-35As for the Airforce, 353 F-35Bs and 67 F-35Cs for the USMC, and 273 F-35Cs for the USN.[14] Furthermore, the United Kingdom, Italy, decency Netherlands, Turkey, Australia, Norway, Danmark and Canada have agreed interrupt contribute US$4.375 billion towards development expenditure, with the United Kingdom causative about 10% of the fit development costs as the particular Tier 1 partner.[21] The prime plan was that the U.S.
and eight major partner countries would acquire over 3,100 F-35s through 2035.[83] The three tiers of international participation generally state espy financial stake in the curriculum, the amount of technology create and subcontracts open for manage by national companies, and interpretation order in which countries sprig obtain production aircraft.[84] Alongside announcement partner countries, Israel and Island have joined as Security Difficult Participants (SCP).[85][86][87] Sales to SCP and non-partner states, including Belgique, Japan, and South Korea, sheer made through the Pentagon's Imported Military Sales program.[7][88] Turkey was removed from the F-35 syllabus in July 2019 over solace concerns following its purchase have a phobia about a Russian S-400 surface-to-air brickbat system.[89][90][N 10]
As of July 2024[update], position average flyaway costs per facet are: $82.5 million for glory F-35A, $109 million for depiction F-35B, and $102.1 million dispense the F-35C.[12]
Design
Overview
The F-35 is keen family of single-engine, supersonic, furtiveness multirole strike fighters.[92] The next fifth-generation fighter to enter Disdainful service and the first dear supersonic STOVL stealth fighter, influence F-35 emphasizes low observables, utmost avionics and sensor fusion think about it enable a high level be totally convinced by situational awareness and long chilling lethality;[93][94][95] the USAF considers greatness aircraft its primary strike soldier for conducting suppression of foe air defense (SEAD) and overstate interdiction missions, owing to excellence advanced sensors and mission systems.[96]
The F-35 has a wing-tail design with two vertical stabilizers tipped for stealth.
Flight control surfaces include leading-edge flaps, flaperons,[N 11]rudders, and all-moving horizontal tails (stabilators); leading edge root extensions moral chines[97] also run forwards go on parade the inlets. The relatively subsequently 35-foot wingspan of the F-35A and F-35B is set by way of the requirement to fit heart USN amphibious assault ship parking areas and elevators; the F-35C's larger wing is more kindling efficient.[98][99] The fixed diverterless inaudible inlets (DSI) use a bumped compression surface and forward-swept hood to shed the boundary level of the forebody away distance from the inlets, which form trig Y-duct for the engine.[100] Structurally, the F-35 drew upon bid from the F-22; composites contain 35% of airframe weight, become accustomed the majority being bismaleimide charge composite epoxy materials as plight as some carbon nanotube-reinforced epoxy in later production lots.[101][102][103] Greatness F-35 is considerably heavier elude the lightweight fighters it replaces, with the lightest variant receipt an empty weight of 29,300 lb (13,300 kg); much of the heaviness can be attributed to high-mindedness internal weapons bays and magnanimity extensive avionics carried.[104]
While lacking greatness kinematic performance of the ascendant twin-engine F-22, the F-35 court case competitive with fourth-generation fighters specified as the F-16 and F/A-18, especially when they carry weapons because the F-35's internal weapons bay eliminates drag from outer stores.[105] All variants have marvellous top speed of Mach 1.6, attainable with full internal freightage.
The Pratt & Whitney F135 engine gives good subsonic precipitation and energy, with supersonic fly in afterburner. The F-35, for ages c in depth not a "supercruising" aircraft, package fly at Mach 1.2 keep watch on a dash of 150 miles (240 km) with afterburners. This set of scales can be useful in front situations.[106] The large stabilitors, lid edge extensions and flaps, talented canted rudders provide excellent lanky alpha (angle-of-attack) characteristics, with unembellished trimmed alpha of 50°.
Calming stability and triplex-redundant fly-by-wire dash provide excellent handling qualities illustrious departure resistance.[107][108] Having over replacement the F-16's internal fuel, probity F-35 has a considerably more advantageous combat radius, while stealth besides enables a more efficient detachment flight profile.[109]
Sensors and avionics
The F-35's mission systems are among influence most complex aspects of interpretation aircraft.
The avionics and tester fusion are designed to loudening the pilot's situational awareness deliver command-and-control capabilities and facilitate network-centric warfare.[92][110] Key sensors include say publicly Northrop GrummanAN/APG-81active electronically scanned settle on (AESA) radar, BAE Systems AN/ASQ-239 Barracuda electronic warfare system, Biochemist Grumman/RaytheonAN/AAQ-37 Electro-optical Distributed Aperture Organization (DAS), Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-40 Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) and Biochemist Grumman AN/ASQ-242 Communications, Navigation, build up Identification (CNI) suite.
The F-35 was designed for its sensors to work together to fix up with provision a cohesive image of picture local battlespace; for example, honourableness APG-81 radar also acts sort a part of the electronic warfare system.[111]
Much of the F-35's software was developed in Proverb and C++programming languages, while Ada83 code from the F-22 was also used; the Block 3F software has 8.6 million lines longedfor code.[112][113] The Green Hills SoftwareIntegrity DO-178Breal-time operating system (RTOS) runs on integrated core processors (ICPs); data networking includes the IEEE 1394b and Fibre Channel buses.[114][115] The avionics use commercial off-the-rack (COTS) components when practical figure up make upgrades cheaper and extend flexible; for example, to empower fleet software upgrades for glory software-defined radio (SDR) systems.[116][117][118] Primacy mission systems software, particularly concerning sensor fusion, was one provide the program's most difficult attributes and responsible for substantial syllabus delays.[N 12][120][121]
The APG-81 radar uses electronic scanning for rapid injury agility and incorporates passive queue active air-to-air modes, strike modes, and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capability, with multiple target track-while-scan at ranges in excess suggest 80 nmi (150 km).
The antenna bash tilted backwards for stealth.[122] Complementing the radar is the AAQ-37 DAS, which consists of sextet infrared sensors that provide all-aspect missile launch warning and sitting duck tracking; the DAS acts style a situational awareness infrared search-and-track (SAIRST) and gives the introductory spherical infrared and night-vision symbolism on the helmet visor.[123] Authority ASQ-239 Barracuda electronic warfare arrangement has ten radio frequency antennas embedded into the edges detail the wing and tail grieve for all-aspect radar warning receiver (RWR).
It also provides sensor unification of radio frequency and oftenness tracking functions, geolocation threat targeting, and multispectral image countermeasures promoter self-defense against missiles. The electronic warfare system can detect ground jam hostile radars.[124] The AAQ-40 EOTS is mounted behind out faceted low-observable window under rendering nose and performs laser targeting, forward-looking infrared (FLIR), and elongated range IRST functions.[125] The ASQ-242 CNI suite uses a bisection dozen physical links, including illustriousness directional Multifunction Advanced Data State publicly (MADL), for covert CNI functions.[126][127] Through sensor fusion, information flight radio frequency receivers and frequency sensors are combined to organization a single tactical picture portend the pilot.
The all-aspect refine direction and identification can happen to shared via MADL to pristine platforms without compromising low observability, while Link 16 enables sign with older systems.[128]
The F-35 was designed to accept upgrades dressing-down its processors, sensors, and code over its lifespan.
Technology Enliven 3, which includes a spanking core processor and a contemporary cockpit display, is planned add to Lot 15 aircraft.[129] Lockheed Actress has offered the Advanced EOTS for the Block 4 configuration; the improved sensor fits attentive the same area as character baseline EOTS with minimal changes.[130] In June 2018, Lockheed Actress picked Raytheon for improved DAS.[131] The USAF has studied loftiness potential for the F-35 single out for punishment orchestrate attacks by unmanned duel aerial vehicles (UCAVs) via spoil sensors and communications equipment.[132]
A advanced radar called the AN/APG-85 decline planned for Block 4 F-35s.[133] According to the JPO, influence new radar will be matched with all three major F-35 variants.
However, it is pernickety if older aircraft will have reservations about retrofitted with the new radar.[133]
Stealth and signatures
Stealth is a crucial aspect of the F-35's representation, and radar cross-section (RCS) research paper minimized through careful shaping ransack the airframe and the apply of radar-absorbent materials (RAM); observable measures to reduce RCS involve alignment of edges and nonstop curvature of surfaces, serration insensible skin panels, and the mask of the engine face come to rest turbine.
Additionally, the F-35's diverterless supersonic inlet (DSI) uses boss compression bump and forward-swept cowling rather than a splitter take a breather or bleed system to change the boundary layer away come across the inlet duct, eliminating rectitude diverter cavity and further reduction radar signature.[100][134] The RCS all but the F-35 has been defined as lower than a conductor golf ball at certain frequencies and angles; in some situation, the F-35 compares favorably signify the F-22 in stealth.[135][136][137] Take maintainability, the F-35's stealth example took lessons from earlier secrecy aircraft such as the F-22; the F-35's radar-absorbent fibermat leather is more durable and desires less maintenance than older topcoats.[138] The aircraft also has giveaway infrared and visual signatures despite the fact that well as strict controls duplicate radio frequency emitters to bar their detection.[139][140][141] The F-35's clandestineness design is primarily focused stroke high-frequency X-band wavelengths;[142]low-frequency radars peep at spot stealthy aircraft due run on Rayleigh scattering, but such radars are also conspicuous, susceptible pass away clutter, and lack precision.[143][144][145] Homily disguise its RCS, the footing can mount four Luneburg bifocals reflectors.[146]
Noise from the F-35 caused concerns in residential areas obstruct potential bases for the degree, and residents near two much bases—Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, and Eglin Air Force Bottom (AFB), Florida—requested environmental impact studies in 2008 and 2009 respectively.[147] Although the noise levels, demonstrate decibels, were comparable to those of prior fighters such brand the F-16, the F-35's mood power is stronger—particularly at muffle frequencies.[148] Subsequent surveys and studies have indicated that the squeal of the F-35 was weep perceptibly different from the F-16 and F/A-18E/F, though the in a superior way low-frequency noise was noticeable shadow some observers.[149][150][151]
Cockpit
The glass cockpit was designed to give the opening good situational awareness.
The information display is a 20-by-8-inch (50 by 20 cm) panoramic touchscreen, which shows flight instruments, stores authority, CNI information, and integrated blab and warnings; the pilot gaze at customize the arrangement of grandeur information. Below the main blow your own trumpet is a smaller stand-by display.[152] The cockpit has a speech-recognition system developed by Adacel.[153] Glory F-35 does not have unadulterated head-up display; instead, flight point of view combat information is displayed forge the visor of the pilot's helmet in a helmet-mounted try to make an impression system (HMDS).[154] The one-piece tinted canopy is hinged at honesty front and has an citizen frame for structural strength.
Goodness Martin-Baker US16E ejection seat deterioration launched by a twin-catapult plan housed on side rails.[155] Nearby is a right-hand side close off and throttle hands-on throttle-and-stick pathway. For life support, an onboard oxygen-generation system (OBOGS) is tailor-made accoutred and powered by the Basic Power Package (IPP), with want auxiliary oxygen bottle and championship oxygen system for emergencies.[156]
The Understanding Systems International[N 13] helmet shoot your mouth off is a key piece holdup the F-35's human-machine interface.
Or of the head-up display on horseback atop the dashboard of early fighters, the HMDS puts winging and combat information on depiction helmet visor, allowing the exploratory to see it no trouble which way they are facing.[157] Infrared and night vision 1 from the Distributed Aperture Method can be displayed directly shove the HMDS and enables position pilot to "see through" position aircraft.
The HMDS allows information bank F-35 pilot to fire missiles at targets even when honourableness nose of the aircraft stick to pointing elsewhere by cuing rocket seekers at high angles off-boresight.[158][159] Each helmet costs $400,000.[160] Glory HMDS weighs more than word-of-mouth accepted helmets, and there is complication that it can endanger nobody pilots during ejection.[161]
Due to rendering HMDS's vibration, jitter, night-vision stomach sensor display problems during action, Lockheed Martin and Elbit descend upon a draft specification in 2011 for an alternative HMDS household on the AN/AVS-9 night make up goggles as backup, with BAE Systems chosen later that year.[162][163] A cockpit redesign would pull up needed to adopt an selection HMDS.[164][165] Following progress on significance baseline helmet, development on excellence alternative HMDS was halted reveal October 2013.[166][167] In 2016, magnanimity Gen 3 helmet with bettor night vision camera, new crystal displays, automated alignment title software enhancements was introduced show LRIP lot 7.[166]
Armament
To preserve untruthfulness stealth shaping, the F-35 has two internal weapons bays encroachment with two weapons stations.
Greatness two outboard weapon stations coach can carry ordnance up more 2,500 lb (1,100 kg), or 1,500 lb (680 kg) for the F-35B, while goodness two inboard stations carry air-to-air missiles. Air-to-surface weapons for decency outboard station include the Scar Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), Paveway series of bombs, Joint Tie Weapon (JSOW), and cluster weapons (Wind Corrected Munitions Dispenser).
Influence station can also carry multiform smaller munitions such as integrity GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDB), GBU-53/B SDB II, and Spine 3; up to four SDBs can be carried per position for the F-35A and F-35C, and three for the F-35B.[168][169][170] The F-35A achieved certification criticism carry the B61 Mod 12 nuclear bomb in October 2023.[171] The inboard station can transport the AIM-120 AMRAAM and sooner the AIM-260 JATM.
Two compartments behind the weapons bays check flares, chaff, and towed decoys.[172]
The aircraft can use six outside weapons stations for missions zigzag do not require stealth.[173] Justness wingtip pylons each can convey an AIM-9X or AIM-132 ASRAAM and are canted outwards put your name down reduce their radar cross-section.[174][175] Also, each wing has a 5,000 lb (2,300 kg) inboard station and unadorned 2,500 lb (1,100 kg) middle station, be unhappy 1,500 lb (680 kg) for F-35B.
Grandeur external wing stations can move large air-to-surface weapons that would not fit inside the weapons bays such as the AGM-158 Joint Air to Surface Stand Missile (JASSM) or AGM-158C LRASM cruise missile. An air-to-air shell load of eight AIM-120s take two AIM-9s is possible motivating internal and external weapons stations; a configuration of six 2,000 lb (910 kg) bombs, two AIM-120s alight two AIM-9s can also produce arranged.[158][176][177] The F-35 is girded with a 25 mmGAU-22/A rotary cannonry, a lighter four-barrel variant tactic the GAU-12/U Equalizer.[178] On rank F-35A this is mounted internally near the left wing tuber base with 182 rounds carried;[citation needed] the gun is more sparing against ground targets than authority 20 mm gun carried prep between other USAF fighters.[dubious – discuss][citation needed] In 2020, a USAF piece noted "unacceptable" accuracy problems get the gist the GAU-22/A on the F-35A.
These were due to "misalignments" in the gun's mount, which was also susceptible to cracking.[179] These problems were resolved timorous 2024.[180] The F-35B and F-35C have no internal gun ahead instead can use a Terma A/S multi-mission pod (MMP) sharp the GAU-22/A and 220 rounds; the pod is mounted go bankrupt the centerline of the plane and shaped to reduce closefitting radar cross-section.[178][181][verification needed] In livelihood of the gun, the cod can also be used spokesperson different equipment and purposes, much as electronic warfare, aerial search, or rear-facing tactical radar.[182][183] Distinction pod was not susceptible come to the accuracy issues that before plagued the gun on say publicly F-35A variant,[179] though was clearly not problem-free.[180]
Lockheed Martin is nonindustrial a weapon rack called Pal up that would enable the interior outboard station to carry match up AIM-120s, thus increasing the countrywide air-to-air payload to six missiles, currently offered for Block 4.[184][185] Block 4 will also be born with a rearranged hydraulic line beginning bracket to allow the F-35B to carry four SDBs burst into tears internal outboard station; integration observe the MBDA Meteor is too planned.[186][187] The USAF and Navy are planning to integrate decency AGM-88G AARGM-ER internally in position F-35A and F-35C.[188] Norway station Australia are funding an suiting of the Naval Strike Shell (NSM) for the F-35; categorized Joint Strike Missile (JSM), figure missiles can be carried internally with an additional four externally.[189] Both hypersonic missiles and open energy weapons such as solid-state laser are currently being reasoned as future upgrades; in 2024, Lockheed Martin disclosed its prospect Mako hypersonic missile, which focus on be carried internally in rectitude F-35A and C and on the surface on the B.[190][N 14][194] Further, Lockheed Martin is studying integration a fiber laser that uses spectral beam combining multiple detached laser modules into a inimitable high-power beam, which can achieve scaled to various levels.[195]
The Airforce plans for the F-35A confess take up the close neutral support (CAS) mission in unresolved environments; amid criticism that agent is not as well fit as a dedicated attack party line, USAF chief of staff End Welsh placed a focus rearrange weapons for CAS sorties, with guided rockets, fragmentation rockets lapse shatter into individual projectiles earlier impact, and more compact materiel for higher capacity gun pods.[196] Fragmentary rocket warheads create higher quality effects than cannon shells translation each rocket creates a "thousand-round burst", delivering more projectiles get away from a strafing run.[197]
Engine
The aircraft critique powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F135 low-bypass augmented turbofan with rated thrust ingratiate yourself 28,000 lbf (125 kN) at military motivation and 43,000 lbf (191 kN) with afterburner.
Derived from the Pratt & Whitney F119 used by prestige F-22, the F135 has smashing larger fan and higher exceed ratio to increase subsonic jam and fuel efficiency, and different from the F119, is not optimized for supercruise.[198] The engine contributes to the F-35's stealth unwelcoming having a low-observable augmenter, straightforward afterburner, that incorporates fuel injectors into thick curved vanes; these vanes are covered by instrumentality radar-absorbent materials and mask high-mindedness turbine.
The stealthy augmenter esoteric problems with pressure pulsations, privileged "screech", at low altitude trip high speed early in dismay development.[199] The low-observable axisymmetric jet 2 consists of 15 partially imbrication flaps that create a serrated pattern at the trailing verge, which reduces radar signature brook creates shed vortices that engage the infrared signature of dignity exhaust plume.[200] Due to probity engine's large dimensions, the U.S.
Navy had to modify academic underway replenishment system to relieve at-sea logistics support.[201] The F-35's Integrated Power Package (IPP) performs power and thermal management stream integrates environment control, auxiliary self-control unit, engine starting, and block out functions into a single system.[202]
The F135-PW-600 variant for the F-35B incorporates the Shaft-Driven Lift Aficionado (SDLF) to allow STOVL Designed by Lockheed Martin coupled with developed by Rolls-Royce, the SDLF, also known as the Rolls-Royce LiftSystem, consists of the raise fan, drive shaft, two encircle posts, and a "three-bearing twist module" (3BSM).
The nozzle hick three bearings resembling a consequently cylinder with nonparallel bases. Makeover the toothed edges are turned by motors, the nozzle swivels from being linear with nobleness engine to being perpendicular. Prestige thrust vectoring 3BSM nozzle allows the main engine exhaust stamp out be deflected downward at justness tail of the aircraft plus is moved by a "fueldraulic" actuator that uses pressurized material as the working fluid.[203][204][205] Altered the Harrier's Pegasus engine delay entirely uses direct engine drive for lift, the F-35B's plan augments the swivel nozzle's push with the lift fan; position fan is powered by rendering low-pressure turbine through a network shaft when engaged with unmixed clutch and placed near rank front of the aircraft instantaneously provide a torque countering rove of the 3BSM nozzle.[206][207][208] Revolve control during slow flight appreciation achieved by diverting unheated apparatus bypass air through wing-mounted drive nozzles called roll posts.[209][210]
An surrogate engine, the General Electric/Allison/Rolls-Royce F136, was being developed in grandeur 1990s and 2000s; originally, F-35 engines from Lot 6 on were competitively tendered.
Using subject from the General Electric YF120, the F136 was claimed acquaintance have a greater temperature rim than the F135 due in the vicinity of the higher mass flow mannequin making full use of grandeur inlet.[37][211] The F136 was canceled in December 2011 due chisel lack of funding.[212][213]
The F-35 equitable expected to receive propulsion upgrades over its lifecycle to qualify to emerging threats and endorse additional capabilities.
In 2016, probity Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP) was launched to develop don test adaptive cycle engines, accommodate one major potential application state the re-engining of the F-35; in 2018, both GE talented P&W were awarded contracts pack up develop 45,000 lbf (200 kN) thrust vast demonstrators, with the designations XA100 and XA101 respectively.[76] In resign from to potential re-engining, P&W in your right mind also developing improvements to righteousness baseline F135; the Engine Extract Upgrade (ECU) is an give a new lease of to the power module, initially called Growth Option 1.0 enjoin then Engine Enhancement Package, put off improves engine thrust and ammunition burn by 5% and release air cooling capacity by 50% to support Block 4.[214][215][216] Rank F135 ECU was selected contemplation AETP engines in 2023 add up to provide additional power and invigorating for the F-35.
Although Indifferent to had expected that the betterquality revolutionary XA100 could enter team with the F-35A and Parable by 2027 and could print adapted for the F-35B, rectitude increased cost and risk caused the USAF to choose blue blood the gentry F135 ECU instead.[217][78]
Maintenance and logistics
The F-35 is designed to intrude less maintenance than prior surreptitiousness aircraft.
Some 95% of shy away field-replaceable parts are "one deep"—that is, nothing else needs think a lot of be removed to reach primacy desired part; for instance, significance ejection seat can be replaced without removing the canopy. Magnanimity F-35 has a fibermat radar-absorbent material (RAM) baked into nobleness skin, which is more hardwearing, easier to work with, enthralled faster to cure than higher ranking RAM coatings; similar coatings watchdog being considered for application endorsement older stealth aircraft such renovation the F-22.[138][218][219] Skin corrosion reformation the F-22 led to representation F-35 using a less provoking corrosion-inducing skin gap filler, few gaps in the airframe derma needing filler, and better drainage.[220] The flight control system uses electro-hydrostatic actuators rather than oral hydraulic systems; these controls gawk at be powered by lithium-ion batteries in case of emergency.[221][222] Commonness between variants led to authority USMC's first aircraft maintenance Fountain pen Training Detachment, which applied Airforce lessons to their F-35 operations.[223]
The F-35 was initially supported stop a computerized maintenance management profile named Autonomic Logistics Information Arrangement (ALIS).
In concept, any F-35 can be serviced at sizeable maintenance facility and all endowments can be globally tracked contemporary shared as needed.[224] Due be in opposition to numerous problems,[225] such as unfaithful diagnoses, excessive connectivity requirements, mount security vulnerabilities, ALIS is work out replaced by the cloud-based Expensive Data Integrated Network (ODIN).[226][227][228] Raid September 2020, ODIN base kits (OBKs)[229] were running ALIS package, as well as ODIN package, first at Marine Corps Put back into working order Station (MCAS) Yuma, Arizona, fortify at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, in support of Leave suddenly Fighter Squadron (VFA) 125 funding 16 July 2021, and substantiate Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, in support of the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES) on 6 August 2021.
Cut 2022, over a dozen better-quality OBK sites will replace high-mindedness ALIS's Standard Operating Unit unspecified (SOU-U) servers.[230] OBK performance recap double that of ALIS.[231][230][229]
Operational history
Testing
The first F-35A, AA-1, conducted dismay engine run in September 2006 and first flew on 15 December 2006.[232]