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F-35 Ski-Jump Launch Test [Video]
The F-35 Lightning II Pax River Integrated Test Force from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 conducted the first-ever ski jump of an F-35B Lightning II short take-off/vertical-landing (STOVL) variant June 19 from a temporary 10-foot ramp constructed on the runway. During flight 298, BAE test pilot Peter Wilson launched aircraft BF-04 from a land-based ski jump located aboard NAS Patuxent River. (www.youtube.com) Plus d'info...
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I won't be impressed until this overpriced monstrosity does everything it's supposed to do without getting its pilots killed due to design flaws that limit its performance.
Assuming this test is aimed primarily at the Royal Navy and their ramp decks?
The F-35 doesn't have enough thrust to takeoff without a ramp, or a normal runway? Maybe I'm just behind on the times but isn't there already one that can takeoff like the Harrier?
I'm assuming the ramp allows it to get airborne quicker using less fuel.
And how much ordnance can we get airborne from this skateboard ramp?
