News
Linked In: F-35 Interoperability in Action
September 10, 2024
America and allies around the world are using the F-35’s advanced, connected capabilities to strengthen 21st Century Security®.
From Europe to the Indo-Pacific, the growing global fleet of F-35s is transforming how allies train today and prepare for the future.
Highways, Danger Zones
F-35 interoperability is proving its value across Europe, where U.S. Air Force F-35As recently operated from a Finnish highway for the first time.
The historic landing demonstrated NATO’s growing agility – in this case, delivering 5th Generation airpower when and where it’s needed.
“The successful first-ever landing of our fifth-generation F-35 on a highway in Europe is a testament to the growing relationship and close interoperability we have with our Finnish allies,” said Gen. James Hecker, commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa.
Squad Goals
Elsewhere on the ground, F-35 interoperability is advancing how allies keep the stealth jets mission-ready at home and abroad.
In June, an international mix of F-35s trained with NATO allies during a first-ever basic fighter maneuvering exercise in Germany, where U.S. Air Force maintainers serviced Norwegian F-35s for the first time.
“We talk a lot about interoperability and today we are exemplifying this capability by having our jets cross-serviced by maintainers from other countries,” said Lt. Col. Michael Loringer, U.S. Air Forces in Europe ‒ Air Forces Africa chief of weapons and tactics.
Pacific Partnership
Meanwhile in the Indo-Pacific, U.S. Marine F-35B pilots flew Australian F-35As for the first time, further demonstrating the value of F-35 interoperability and interchangeability.
