MCAS Beaufort --
The Joint Strike Fighter Pilot Training Center was completed
this month with capabilities to hold 8 full mission F-35B simulators,
classrooms, briefing rooms and more.
Construction of new facilities aboard Fightertown continue
for the expected arrival of two training and three operational F-35B
squadrons.
F-35B Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter aircraft is slated to
replace the F/A-18 with Fightertown having the facilities available to train
Marine aviators on the aircraft. The Air Station will serve as the hub for all
F-35B training throughout the Marine Corps.
Advancement in aviation has brought forth the Joint Strike
Fighter Program by Department of
Defense to provide the U.S military and allies, affordable next generation
strike aircraft weapon systems.
The F-35B is a single-engine, single-seat aircraft with
capabilities to perform short takeoffs and vertical landings. New stealth
capabilities, integrated training systems and global sustainment is also
incorporated into the aircraft.
Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, who is
currently at Eglin Air Force Base, is expected to relocate to Fightertown in January
2014.
“With the new aircraft, pilots will have ever y tactical
advantage in the modern world environment against technology in air-to-air and
air-to-ground combat scenarios,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Johnson, JSF
site activation task force officer.
Future projects include the construction of vertical landing
pads and landing helicopter deck training facilities.
“After looking at this jet, I received even more comfort in
knowing that this was the next-generation fighter that would support the
Marines on the ground,” said Col. Michael Cederholm, the former MAG-31
commanding officer in an interview with Leatherneck Magazine. “As a father, I
want this aircraft overhead of my son in a time of crisis, and hope that ever y
parent, spouse and family member finds that same comfort in knowing that their
Marine serving in harm’s way will be supported with the most advanced
technology.”