[Avionics Today 07-31-2014] The Lockheed Martin F-35B recently completed required wet runway and crosswind testing at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., enabling U.S. Marines Corps Initial Operational Capability (IOC) certification.


“This testing is absolutely critical to 2B flight software fleet release and the Marine Corps’ IOC,” said J.D. McFarlan, Lockheed Martin’s vice president for F-35 Test & Verification. “Collectively, the results support clearing the 20 knot crosswind envelope for Conventional Take Off & Landings (CTOL), Short Take Offs (STO) and Short Landings (SL), with ideal handling quality ratings and meaningful improvement over legacy 4th generational fighter aircraft.”
The testing was completed in 37 missions during a 41-day period.