53
but the focus is now on the formal IOT&E
and the full Block 3F software capability.
The headline capabilities of Block 3F for
F-35B include the GBU-12 laser-guided bomb,
GBU-31/32 Joint Direct Attack Munition
(JDAM), GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB),
AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW-C1),
AIM-120C Advanced Medium-Range Air-
to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) and the AIM-
9X short-range air-to-air missile. Block 3F
also adds gun capability for all variants.
Successful completion of IOT&E will give
the green light for full-rate ‘block buy’ F-35
production, vital in realising reduced unit
costs thanks to increased production rates
and predictable long-lead item procurement.
VMX-1 has also been pivotal in proving
out some of the critical elements of
operating the F-35B, such as the ‘Proof“The F-35’s stealth is awesome, but it’s just a tool in our
toolbox. The airplane’s centre of gravity is its sensors –
they are what make this aircraft so different”
Sqn Ldr Nichols and
Maj ‘Gravy’ Rountree
‘step’ to the awaiting
jets. Jamie Hunter