F-35 Lightning II Image Gallery
The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter originated in the early 1990s through the restructure and integration of several DoD tactical aircraft and technology initiatives already underway. The DoD's goal was to use the latest technology in a common family of aircraft to meet the future strike requirements of the Services and US Allies.
On July 7 2006 the F-35 fighter was officially named "Lightning II"
F-35 Lightning II Images:
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The first F-35 Lightning II flew for the first time on Friday, Dec. 15. The plane is shown climbing out shortly after takeoff from Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas.
Source: Lockheed Martin
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The first F-35 Lightning II speeds along the runway at 127 miles per hour on Dec. 12 at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas. Engineers will review the taxi-test data before giving the final "go" for the aircraft's first flight.
Source: Lockheed Martin
All F-35 Lightning II images
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