US Navy's advanced F-35C fighter jets deployed across key bases

Edwards Air Force Base, although primarily an Air Force facility, also accommodates Navy test squadrons with F-35Cs due to its extensive airspace and testing facilities. The base is instrumental in aircraft development and evaluation.

In Florida, Eglin AFB was home to VFA-101 'Grim Reapers,' the first operational squadron equipped with the F-35C without undergoing developmental testing. This unit played a pivotal role in establishing a unified training base for all branches of the US military.

As of July 2022, NAS Lemoore had transitioned from hosting Super Hornets to becoming a central hub for F-35C operations. The base saw significant milestones such as the initial operational capability (IOC) attainment by VFA-147 on February 28, 2019.

The introduction of these advanced fighter jets has impacted naval operations significantly. "The development of the US Air Force’s F-35A and US Marines’ (VTOL) F-35B preceded the F-35C," with plans to purchase a total of 67 units underway.

At NAS Fallon’s Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center (NAWDC), two initial F-35Cs were delivered for training purposes at TOPGUN school as instructors devise new tactics for fleet operations.

These developments underscore the strategic importance of these bases in enhancing US naval capabilities through cutting-edge technology provided by platforms like the F-35C Lightning II.