F-35B update July

You can read about the F-35B simulator and the integration work being carried out to allow operation of the F-35Bs on the new carrier at this Link to BAE systems site. There is an onward link to this video from the QE carrier by an experimental test pilot.

The downloable pdf contains an article on how Machine Augmented Intelligence (MAI) is being used to integrate the carrier and its aircraft.

An F-35B recently completed required wet runway and crosswind testing at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

“This testing is absolutely critical to 2B flight software fleet release and the Marine Corps’ IOC,” said J.D. McFarlan, Lockheed Martin's vice president for F-35 Test & Verification. “Collectively, the results support clearing the 20 knot crosswind envelope for Conventional Take Off & Landings (CTOL), Short Take Offs (STO) and Short Landings (SL), with ideal handling quality ratings and meaningful improvement over legacy 4th generational fighter aircraft.”

The testing, completed in 37 missions during a 41-day period, achieved 114 test points, including  48 of 48 wet runway test points, four of four performance STOs, 12 of 18 unique flight test conditions for STO, 19 of 23 unique flight test conditions for SLs and all directional control and anti-skid wet runway testing. All testing was performed with BF-4, based at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland.