Navy test pilot Cmdr. Eric 'Magic' Buus brings F-35C test aircraft CF-3 into launch position on a test catapult July 19th, 2011. The test demonstrated proper catapult hook up in preparation for the first launches at Lakehurst, N.J., scheduled for later this month. 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 prior to eventual delivery to the fleet. [Photo by Lockheed Martin]
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News: Navy Announces Decision to Base the F-35C at NAS Lemoore [2014-10-02]
The Department of the Navy, after carefully weighing the strategic, operational, and environmental consequences of the proposed action, has decided to base the F-35C aircraft at Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore, California.
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