For the first time in history, the F-35B was delivered by helicopter — the CH-53K carried the Lightning as cargo

Not a flight, but a flight — like taking a disassembled fighter

On August 27, 2025, what used to sound like a joke happened: the F-35B Lightning II fighter jet was delivered by helicopter. For the first time in history, the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps conducted an aerial loading of an F-35B airframe using a CH-53K King Stallion heavy transport helicopter. The aircraft, known as the BF-1, flew not under its own thrust, but as a load on an external suspension.

Route: from Patuxent River Naval Air Base in Maryland to Beaufort Marine Corps Air Base in South Carolina - more than 800 kilometers.

CH-53K — heavy "taxi" for airplanes

The CH-53K is one of the most powerful helicopters in the world. It is designed to transport heavy loads in conditions where there are no roads or ships. In this case, he took on the role of a "flying crane": the F-35B was mounted on an external suspension and carefully lifted into the air.

The operation required precise coordination: the fighter is not a bag of cement. Its aerodynamics, fragile surfaces and shape make transportation difficult. But the CH-53K coped — and showed what it is capable of.

The BF-1 no longer flies — it's now a museum piece

The BF-1 aircraft is not just an F-35B. This is the first prototype that has ever taken to the air. It has passed all the test stages, including vertical landings and takeoffs. But over time, its engine and control systems were removed — it can no longer fly.

Now his destiny is to become part of the permanent static exhibit at Beaufort Air Base. This is a tribute to the first Lightning, which paved the way for the entire series.

Why not by land or sea — and why was all this necessary?

It would be possible to transport the aircraft by land or water. But the air route is the fastest and safest. There is no need to block roads, coordinate routes, or risk damage during loading and unloading.

In addition, the operation was an excellent demonstration of the capabilities of the CH-53K. If he can move the F-35B, it means he can get a damaged helicopter, artillery or other equipment out of the battle zone.

It's not just transportation. This is a signal: the Marines have the power to take their own — even from the air.

Sources

1. Wikipedia — F-35 Lightning II variants overview
2. YouTube — CH-53K transporting F-35B footage
3. YouTube — F-35B demonstration
4. Bastion Karpenko — F-35B Lightning II details

Japan received the first three F-35B fighter jets to revive carrier-based aviation after World War II

Japan has taken an important step in updating its Air Force - on August 8, the first three fifth—generation F-35B fighters with a shortened takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) arrived at the Nyutabaru Airbase in Miyazaki Prefecture. This marks the country's return to carrier-based aviation operations for the first time since the end of World War II.

For now, the aircraft will be based at the Nyutabaru Air Force Base, but in the future they will be operated from Izumo-class naval helicopter carriers — JS Izumo and JS Kaga, which are currently being upgraded to receive carrier-based fighters. Interestingly, these ships have already received the F-35B of the US Marine Corps during joint exercises.

The pilots of the American Marine Corps have not only delivered planes to Japan, but will also train Japanese military personnel in piloting and operating the F-35B.

In total, Japan plans to receive 42 such fighters, of which eight are expected to arrive by the end of fiscal year 2025. Full operational readiness of carrier-based aircraft on Izumo and Kaga is planned for 2027-2028.

The arrival of the F-35B is a big step for Japan, strengthening its naval and air defenses, especially amid growing tensions in the region and China's increased military presence.

UK-Japan joint exercises: training F-35B pilots to work together in the Indo-Pacific region

 

The Ministry of Defense has updated data on the next step of Operation Highmast, where the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group 25 will focus on joint air operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Special attention is being paid to ensuring that British and Japanese forces hone joint operations with F-35B fighters, fifth—generation aircraft with the ability to take off and vertical landing (STOVL).

For the UK, this is a familiar technique: the F-35B has been in service since 2018, and they have a lot of experience using it. But Japan is just beginning to implement this platform in its naval forces and is still in the process of integration. The two countries are currently conducting joint exercises at sea, where pilots and maintenance personnel are training, working together, learning how to work together, and gaining experience for future operations.

These exercises are an important part of strengthening the military partnership between London and Tokyo. They show solidarity and willingness to jointly respond to various challenges in an increasingly strategic region. In addition, such training helps pilots and technicians better understand each other's work so that everything goes smoothly in real combat conditions.

In general, F-35B joint flights are not just a study, but a serious step forward in terms of strengthening security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Indeed, now that the world is becoming more and more complex from a military point of view, it is coherence and willingness to work together that help maintain balance and prevent conflicts.

NATO forces in the skies over the Black Sea: U.S. and Italian fighter jets practice air strikes

 

As part of the large-scale NATO exercise Neptune-25-2, US Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet fighters and Italian Navy F-35B Lightning II fighter-bombers conducted joint training in Close Air Support (CAS) for ground troops. These simulation operations took place both in the airspace over the Black Sea and in the training areas of Romania.

The exercises demonstrate a high degree of compatibility and interaction between the air forces of the NATO allies. The American Super Hornet, known for its stability and firepower, flew side by side with the Italian F-35B, the most advanced fifth—generation fighter aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities and ultra-high stealth. This combination allows us to work out complex scenarios where the F-35B can use its sensors to detect targets in a highly secure environment, and then transmit data to strike with heavier ammunition from the Super Hornet.

These training sessions underscore NATO's continued presence and combat readiness in the eastern part of the alliance, especially in the coastal regions of the Black Sea, where increased deterrence is a key objective.

F-35Bs refueled and took off from HMS Prince of Wales for the first time before the Talisman Sabre exercises

In 2025, an important event took place within the framework of international military cooperation: F-35B stealth fighters of the United States Marine Corps successfully completed refueling and takeoff operations from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. This was part of his large—scale flagship campaign conducted as part of Operation High Mast, the key aircraft carrier deployment of the British Royal Navy this year.

These operations took place on the eve of one of the largest multinational exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, Talisman Sabre, which underlines the strategic importance of this event. The participation of the F-35B in joint operations with the British flagship demonstrates the high degree of interoperability of the allied forces and the strengthening of their presence in a critically important region.

The British Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales, embarked on an eight-month mission that will take place from the Mediterranean Sea, through the Indian Ocean, and end off the Pacific coast. Such a deeply symbolic and tactically significant deployment is aimed at strengthening defensive ties, demonstrating strength and increasing combat readiness in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

The participation of American fifth-generation fighters in logistical and combat operations with the British aircraft carrier also serves as a prime example of transatlantic partnership and technological synchronization. The joint actions of the F-35B and HMS Prince of Wales have shown the effectiveness of integrating the advanced systems and capabilities of the two countries into a single combat structure.

British F-35Bs will test the deck of the Japanese aircraft carrier Kaga during joint exercises

 

British F-35B carrier—based fighters may soon land and take off from one of Japan's de facto aircraft carriers, JS Kaga, as members of the British aircraft carrier strike group are scheduled to arrive in Japanese waters in August as part of the final phase of a multi-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. It is expected that part of the joint activities will be the landing and take-off of F-35B fighters from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales onto the deck of the Japanese JS Kaga, as the fleets of the partner countries seek to increase interoperability and strengthen military cooperation.

Recall that JS Kaga has already been upgraded to operate F-35B aircraft, and in October 2024, an American F-35B successfully landed on its deck during sea trials. In turn, the British F-35B, based on HMS Prince of Wales, has a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capability, which makes them compatible with aircraft carriers of this type. 

The planned cooperation between the UK and Japan could be an important step in developing a bilateral military partnership and deepening the presence of allied forces in the Indo-Pacific region. Starting from 2029-2030, the full-fledged start of F-35B operations from Japanese aircraft carriers is also expected.

British F-35B stuck on Kerala runway due to hydraulic malfunction

Despite the rainy weather on the runway of Thiruvananthapuram airport in the Indian state of Kerala, the British multi-role stealth fighter F-35B worth about 110 million dollars remains on the ground since June 14. The aircraft cannot take off due to a hydraulic malfunction.

To fix the problem, 40 British engineers are being sent to the region along with a special tractor that will tow the F-35B to a hangar for repairs. The incident caused delays in the operation of the fighter, but experts are confident that its combat readiness will be restored soon.

The F-35B is one of the most modern and technologically advanced combat vehicles in the world, capable of performing vertical takeoff and landing. Any technical failures of this level require prompt intervention and thorough diagnostics to ensure flight safety and maintain high standards of operation.

While the plane remains on the ground, British specialists are working to fix the problem. This case highlights the importance of technical support and maintenance of modern combat platforms in operating conditions abroad.

The British aircraft carriers Queen Elizabeth will receive long-range carrier-based missiles and unmanned aircraft systems

As part of the UK's Strategic Defense Review (SDR), it has been confirmed that the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers will undergo a major upgrade, including long-range carrier-based missiles and unmanned aircraft systems. This will significantly expand the strike capabilities of the ships and increase their effectiveness in modern combat conditions.

The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers are the largest ships in the Royal Navy, with a displacement of about 70,000 tons and an air wing of F-35B Lightning II fighters capable of performing short takeoffs and vertical landings. Previously, these ships were equipped mainly with defensive weapons, including Phalanx anti-aircraft artillery systems and automatic cannons to protect against low-flying targets.

The modernization provides for the integration of long-range deck-based missiles, which will significantly increase the range and accuracy of strikes from the ship, as well as the introduction of unmanned aircraft systems that will expand the capabilities of reconnaissance, targeting and strikes without risk to the crew.

South Korea is curtailing the CVX aircraft carrier project and betting on unmanned technologies: a strategic turn in naval policy

 

The South Korean government has officially announced the cancellation of the CVX light aircraft carrier construction project, which was originally planned to be used to base F-35B vertical takeoff and landing fighters. Instead, the country intends to develop a multi-purpose command ship focused on the integration and control of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

This decision was the result of a review of priorities in the modernization of the Navy of the Republic of Korea. Threat analysis, increased efficiency and availability of UAVs, as well as the high cost of building and operating traditional aircraft carriers forced Seoul to abandon the original plan in favor of a more flexible and economically viable approach.

The new type of ship will play the role of a floating control center capable of coordinating the actions of various types of drones, from reconnaissance drones to attack systems. This transition makes it possible to significantly expand the capabilities of the fleet while reducing the cost of maintaining manned aircraft.

In addition, this decision reflects the global trend towards digitalization and autonomy of military technologies, where the key factor is not the number of manned aircraft, but the quality of information interaction and the ability to quickly adapt to a changing tactical environment.

The abandonment of CVX does not mean a weakening of South Korea's naval power — on the contrary, it indicates its readiness for the war of the future, where robotic systems become the basis of combat potential.

The first Japanese F-35B made its maiden flight, marking the start of deliveries of the latest fighter jets

The first Japanese F-35B made its maiden flight

On May 12, 2025, the first Japanese fighter F-35B Lightning II with tail number BX-1 successfully took off from the Lockheed Martin factory at the  United States Navy Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. This historic moment became an important stage in the implementation of the modernization program of the Japan Air Self-Defense Forces.

The aircraft is the first of 42 multi-role F-35B fighter jets ordered by Japan. These aircraft are distinguished by their ability to vertical takeoff and landing, which makes them ideally suited for use from aircraft carriers and small airfields, as well as enhances the country's strategic flexibility in the face of potential threats in the Asia-Pacific region.

The F-35B BX-1 underwent its first test flight as part of a certification and system verification program before being delivered to the customer. It is expected that after completion of all tests, serial delivery of fighter jets will begin, which will be deployed at Japanese air bases and possibly integrated with the country's maritime self-defense groups.

This project is part of Japan's broader strategy to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its counteraction in the face of increased activity by China and North Korea in the region.

The Royal Navy uses drones for supply in the Indo-Pacific region

 For the first time, the Royal Navy will deploy a fleet of drones to carry out vital ship-to-ship resupply missions during the upcoming deployment of the British Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the Indo-Pacific region.

According to updated Royal Navy news, nine Malloy T-150 octover helicopters will join the HMS Prince of Wales Air group later this month and will carry out missions alongside F-35B aircraft and naval helicopters to transport food, mail and engineering parts throughout the task force.

The goal is to, to free the helicopters from the routine work of supply, freeing them for their main combat and defensive tasks. Drone operations will be conducted by a 12-person team from 700X Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Culdrose.

Japan Strengthens Its Defenses: Second F-35B Squadron by 2030

 Japan will establish a second squadron of F-35B fighter jets by 2030, strengthening amphibious operations cooperation with the U.S. Marine Corps.Japan will create a second F-35 B squadron by the end of the decade. 

This initiative includes adjusting the training schedule due to a three-year delay in the completion of the planned Mageshima Island air base, which is to become the main training center for the fleet.

F-35B and Meteor missile: A milestone in the integration of British weapons onto an advanced American platform

The F-35B fighter successfully conducted the first test flights with the Meteor air-to-air missile

In the world of modern aviation, the achievement associated with the successful test flights of the F-35B fighter jet with the MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile represents an important step in the development of international cooperation and technological progress. These tests, carried out from the Patuxent River Naval Air Station, opened a new chapter in the integration of British weapons systems onto one of the most advanced aviation platforms in the world.

The event, held at the Patuxent River base, was the culmination of a long-term project to adapt the British Meteor missile for use on the fifth-generation F-35B fighter jet. During the tests, an inert version of the rocket was launched, which was used to collect environmental data and verify the compatibility of the system with the aircraft's on-board computers. This stage of testing is part of a broader program aimed at ensuring the full combat readiness of the complex.

Meteor is a long—range supersonic missile developed by the European consortium MBDA. It is equipped with an active radar homing head and a ramjet jet engine, which allows it to maintain high speed and maneuverability even over long distances. The integration of this missile on the F-35B significantly expands the fighter's air combat capabilities, especially against modern threats.

The successful completion of the tests demonstrates the effectiveness of cooperation between the United Kingdom and the United States in the field of defense technology. The F-35 program is one of the largest international projects in the history of the aviation industry, and Britain's participation in it underscores the strategic partnership between the two countries.

For the UK, the integration of the Meteor missile into the F-35B means strengthening its own air defense and attack capabilities. It also strengthens the country's position as one of the key developers of advanced weapons systems in Europe. For the United States, this event shows the flexibility and versatility of the F-35 platform, capable of working with various types of weapons from various partner countries.

This success was made possible by close cooperation between several parties.:

- The British Ministry of Defense: Provided financial and organizational support to the program.

- MBDA: Was responsible for the development and adaptation of the Meteor rocket for installation on the F-35B.

- Lockheed Martin: Performed work on the integration of the missile with the aircraft's onboard systems.

- The US Department of Defense: Provided access to the necessary resources and infrastructure for testing.

Such a partnership serves as an example of how international efforts can lead to the creation of truly global solutions in the defense sector.

Taking into account Meteor's unique characteristics, such as a range of up to 100+ km, high maneuverability and the ability to intercept targets at extreme speeds, the F-35B gets a significant advantage in aerial battles. This makes it an even more dangerous opponent for potential threats, especially in a complex electronic warfare environment.

Moreover, the use of a British missile on an American fighter jet opens up new horizons for other countries operating the F-35. Now they can consider installing similar systems to adapt the aircraft to their specific requirements.

The integration of the Meteor missile into the F-35B has become an important milestone in the development of modern aviation technology and international defense cooperation. This project demonstrates how technologies can be combined to create powerful and flexible systems capable of ensuring the security of allies in a changing world. The success of the tests not only strengthens the position of the UK and the USA as leaders in the defense industry, but also underlines the importance of collective efforts to address global challenges.