VSTOL Observations

A small group of F-35 design engineers came aboard the USS Nassau (LHA-4) on 9 March to observe AV-8B Harrier vertical short takeoff and landing, or VSTOL, operations. Lockheed Martin used the visit to familiarize the F-35B design team with various operational and environmental challenges of shipboard life. Highlights of the team’s visit included touring the ship’s primary flight control, hangar bay, and flight deck during flight quarters and speaking with US Navy and Marine personnel who carry out the everyday maintenance duties on aircraft. The F-35B is the short takeoff/vertical landing variant of the Lightning II to be used by the US Marine Corps and the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.