Watch: Footage of F-35C Sea Trial tests aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) in the Atlantic Ocean.
The US Navy’s carrier version of the F-35, the F-35C Lightning II, has been conducting its final sea trial before IOC (Initial Operational Capability). The Salty Dogs of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX-23) and the Grim Reapers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 101 conducted the third and final developmental test (DT-III).
This video is raw footage of F-35C operations while on board the aircraft carrier USS George Washington. The footage is taken directly from the carrier deck vantage point.
The video includes a three ship flyby, catapults and traps, and refueling operations. An interesting note is we get to see the F-35C fold it’s wings. Naval aircraft fold their wings in an effort to provide more space on the carrier deck.
The Navy version is expected to be fielded for operational use in 2018. The F-35A (USAF version) and the F-35B (USMC version) have already been declared IOC.
US Navy video by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Anna Van Nuys
Top Photo: ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 14, 2016) An F-35C Lightning II carrier variant, assigned to the Grim Reapers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 101, the Navy’s F-35C Fleet replacement squadron, launches off the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kris R. Lindstrom/Released)
h/t Miguelm Mendoza