The F-35B Is Vertically Challenged
The vertical landing restrictions that are emerging cast doubt on an important part of the operational utility of the F-35B.
This F-35B performed the first public flying display of the Lockheed Martin Lightning II at MCAS Yuma, AZ last March. But unlike the AV-8B that it will replace (inset), the stealth jet did not perform a vertical takeoff or landing. (Photos: Chris Pocock)
This F-35B performed the first public flying display of the Lockheed Martin Lightning II at MCAS Yuma, AZ last March. But unlike the AV-8B that it will replace (inset), the stealth jet did not perform a vertical takeoff or landing. (Photos: Chris Pocock)