JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
An F-35 Joint Strike Fighter performed a fly-over for the 2011 Joint Service Open during the opening ceremonies May 21. This is the first time this aircraft has performed at a public event of this nature.
"I can't think of a better way to open the 2011 Joint Service Open House than with a fly-by from an F-35 Joint Strike Fighter," said Col. Ken Rizer, 11th Wing/Joint Base Andrews commander. "Seeing the future of aviation in the sky is inspirational to everyone attending today's events."
The F-35C is the Naval variant of the aircraft featuring enhanced stealth and all weather capabilities in addition to a larger wing and tail, enabling superior low-speed handling to facilitate aircraft carrier landings.
"What you see in the air today is only a glimpse of the United States joint force capability," said Vice Admiral David J. Venlet, Program Executive Officer for the F-35 Lightning II Program. "As we celebrate flight success and milestones, we join forces with Navy, Marine and Coast Guard shipmates in celebrating the centennial of Navy aviation."
The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program is in the system development and demonstration phase, focusing on delivering three different and new aircraft variants to the U.S. Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force. All three variants integrate advanced low observable stealth into a supersonic, multi-role fighter.
"This fine display of multi-service aircrafts and ground units, symbolize something different for everyone here," said Admiral Venlet. "For those that have served, these are more than machines, these are reminders of the people you hold dear."
Unlike the F-35C, which is designed for aircraft carrier takeoffs and landings, the F-35A is the conventional takeoff and landing variant intended for the U.S. Air Force. It is the smallest, lightest F-35 version and is the only variant equipped with an internal cannon, the GAU-22/A.
The 2011 Joint Service Open House showcased aerial performers from all branches of the military services, as well as civilian stunt pilots and dozens of ground displays. Over 165 thousand people are believed to have attended the event.