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On November 9 and 10, the US Marine Corps achieved a historic milestone, launching the Marines’ first combat air strikes using the F-35C Lightning II aircraft. The mission targeted key Houthi weapons storage facilities in Yemen, located in territory controlled by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. These facilities were vital to the Houthis’ military capabilities, housing anti-ship missiles and other conventional weapons that had been used to threaten vessels navigating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The successful strikes marked a significant use of the F-35C’s capabilities in a contested environment.
The F-35C is designed specifically for aircraft carrier operations, offering several features tailored to the unique demands of maritime aviation. With a wingspan of 10.7 meters and foldable wingtips, it provides enhanced lift for carrier takeoffs and landings while maximizing deck space on crowded aircraft carriers. The fighter’s design includes a robust landing system that allows it to use arrestor wires for controlled landings, making it highly adaptable to naval conditions.
What sets the F-35C apart is its long-range, stealth capabilities, and advanced sensor systems. With a combat range of 2220 km, the F-35C can perform extended missions without the need for frequent aerial refueling, giving it a significant advantage in both offensive and defensive roles. Its stealth design, supported by radar-absorbent materials and a low-observable structure, allows it to operate undetected in contested environments, as demonstrated during the recent mission over Houthi-controlled territory.
The F-35C is Equipped with cutting-edge sensors, including the Distributed Aperture System (DAS), Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, and Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), offering unmatched situational awareness. These systems integrate seamlessly to provide real-time data, giving pilots a comprehensive view of the battlefield and enhancing their decision-making abilities.
The F-35C’s ability to execute complex air-to-ground strikes while transiting contested airspace highlights its versatility and effectiveness in modern combat. This successful deployment underscores the F-35C’s critical role in the future of US Navy and Marine Corps operations, making it a vital asset in ensuring dominance over both air and sea.
