By the end of 2025, the Marine Corps is set to receive 183 F-35B and 52 F-35C aircraft, reinforcing its fleet for operational tests, training, and active deployment. The long-term procurement plan remains at 420 aircraft, with a revised allocation of 280 F-35Bs and 140 F-35Cs to support 12 F-35B squadrons and eight F-35C squadrons.
The TACAIR Transition Plan has been updated to include an increase in F-35C squadrons, impacting Marine Fighter Attack Squadrons (VMFA) 232, 323, 112, and 134, which will now transition to the carrier-capable variant. All fleet squadrons, except those based in Iwakuni, Japan, will be structured as ten Primary Aircraft Authorization (PAA) squadrons, with plans to expand to 12 PAA squadrons starting in 2030.
This expansion necessitates a manpower realignment, particularly within the maintenance department. Each squadron will see an increase of two pilots and 25 Marines, focusing on corrosion control and maintenance readiness. The Marine Corps aims to maintain operational effectiveness while ensuring a smooth transition to the expanded F-35 force structure.
The F-35 has now replaced the AV-8B Harrier and the F/A-18 Hornet in supporting Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) deployments on the West Coast. As the transition progresses, the aircraft will also assume responsibilities for East Coast MEU deployments and Unit Deployment Program (UDP) missions.
A key aspect of the transition is the continued commitment to Naval Integration and Tactical Aviation Integration (TAI). The first Marine Corps F-35C squadron, VMFA-314, is actively integrating with the Carrier Air Wing (CVW), and future F-35C squadrons VMFA-311 and VMFA-251 will follow. This ensures balanced support between Marine Corps aviation and Navy carrier operations.
The Marine Corps is also prioritising upgrades and modernisation within the F-35 programme. TR-3 aircraft deliveries are enabling the transition of VMFA-533 and VMFA-251, laying the foundation for the next-generation Block 4 aircraft. These enhancements include the APG-85 radar, updated electronic warfare systems, and advanced countermeasures.
In addition to aircraft modernisation, weapons integration remains a priority. The introduction of Small Diameter Bomb II (SDB-II), advanced air-to-ground missiles (AGM-88G and AGM-158 variants), and expanded internal weapon bay capabilities for the F-35C will significantly boost lethality. The Marine Corps is also at the forefront of integrating Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs), pushing research and development efforts to enhance future operational capabilities.
Funding priorities for the F-35 programme focus on Block 4 modifications, weapons integration, new site activations, and improved simulator and support equipment. These investments ensure the Marine Corps remains prepared for evolving threats while maintaining its operational edge in a contested battlespace.
Source: 2025 Marine Aviation Plan.
