Here are 10 key facts about the F-35B, the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft.
STOVL Capability: The F-35B is the only 5th Generation fighter with short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, making it ideal for operating from smaller decks, austere bases and ships without full-length runways.
Speed with Payload: It can reach speeds of Mach 1.6 while carrying a full internal payload, demonstrating impressive performance in combat and operational scenarios.
Stealth Design: The F-35B features unmatched stealth capabilities, including radar-absorbing materials, aligned edges and an internal weapons bay, making it nearly invisible to enemy radar.
Advanced Sensor Suite: Its onboard sensors create a integrated battlefield picture, allowing pilots to detect, track and neutralize threats before being detected themselves.
Integrated Operations: The F-35B serves as a force multiplier, seamlessly sharing data with ground forces, naval vessels and other aircraft (including uncrewed assets) to provide a complete operational picture.
Pilot-Centric Technology: The F-35B’s helmet-mounted display system projects critical mission data directly onto the pilot’s visor, including target information, flight data, and night vision.
Multi-Mission Capability: It excels in a range of missions, from air superiority and close air support to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and electronic warfare.
Flexible Deployment: Thanks to its STOVL capability, the F-35B is deployed by the U.S. Marine Corps, UK Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, and other international allies, enabling operations from aircraft carriers, assault ships, and remote airfields.
Combat-Proven: The F-35B has been successfully employed in real-world operations, demonstrating its game-changing capabilities and reliability in challenging environments.
Modernization-Ready: It’s built for the future, with ongoing software and hardware upgrades ensuring that it stays ahead of evolving threats, from next-gen air defenses to adversary aircraft.
Source: Lockheed Martin.
