USMC F-35B Test Pilot Makes First Shipboard Night Landing
/
0 Comments
The F-35B is embarked on board the amphibious assault ship for the short take-off vertical landing variant's second set of sea trials, which started on 12 August.
"It all went extremely well," says Lt Col C R Clift, the USMC test pilot who performed the 14 August manoeuvre. "Eight successful landings in one night, so we're tracking favourably along the learning curve."
According to the JPO, this is the second of three planned test series aimed at expanding the F-35B's shipboard operating envelope for the USMC. The first set of sea trials were completed in October 2011.
Some of the lessons learned from the first series of sea trials showed that the ship needed a few modifications to accommodate the F-35B. As a result, the USS Wasp now sports a new composite deck coating that offers additional heat protection.
In addition, some of the ship's lights and sensors had to be moved.
[via]
