F-35C launches to new milestone [Image 2 of 2]

LAKEHURST, NJ, UNITED STATES

07.27.2011

Photo by Cmdr. Victor Chen 

U.S. Navy           

An F-35C test aircraft piloted by Lt. Christopher Tabert launches from a steam catapult for the first time. CF-3 is the designated carrier suitability test aircraft. The F-35C carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with its larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear for greater control in the demanding carrier take-off and landing environment. The F-35C is undergoing test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River before eventual delivery to the fleet.

• Date Taken: 07.27.2011
• Date Posted: 07.27.2011 21:12
• Photo ID: 435203
• VIRIN: 110727-N-GR159-001
• Resolution: 1920x1080
• Size: 1.1 MB
• Location: LAKEHURST, NJ, US