F35B

The F-35B Lightning II is the short takeoff and vertical landing variant of the F-35 fighter family, developed by Lockheed Martin for the United States Marine Corps and several allied militaries. It combines stealth, advanced sensors, and networked warfare capabilities with the ability to operate from ships and austere locations, enabling rapid expeditionary air power.

Design and capabilities: The F-35B features a shaft-driven lift fan located behind the cockpit and a swiveling exhaust nozzle on the engine, enabling vertical takeoff and hover as well as conventional flight. To preserve stealth, it carries weapons internally and relies on advanced sensors, including the AN/APG-81 radar, the electro-optical targeting system, and the distributed aperture system, complemented by a helmet-mounted display for the pilot.

Propulsion and aircraft systems: The aircraft is powered by the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, with the lift fan driven by a shaft from the engine to provide STOVL capability. The design emphasizes stealth, survivability, and networked warfare, using a common airframe with the other F-35 variants to facilitate maintenance and upgrades.

Operational history: The F-35B has entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps and has been adopted by several allied nations. It is intended for expeditionary air operations from amphibious ships and other vessels with limited deck space, enabling rapid air power projection in littoral environments.

Variants and operators: The F-35B is one of three F-35 variants, alongside the conventional takeoff and landing F-35A and the carrier variant F-35C. The B variant emphasizes STOVL capability and carrier suitability for smaller decks, expanding its operational flexibility for partner forces.