F-35 Lightning II

The F-35 is essentially a flying supercomputer. Designed as a multi-role strike fighter for the Air Force, Navy, and Marines, it links up radar and sensor data across friendly units in real time, serving as the central network hub for modern battlefields.

Quick Stats

• Top Speed: Mach 1.6 (1,200 mph)

• Crew: 1

• Primary Role: Multirole Stealth Strike Fighter

• Variants: F-35A (Standard), F-35B (Vertical Takeoff), F-35C (Carrier-Based)

What Makes It Special

• Distributed Aperture System (DAS): Cameras mounted around the plane project a 360-degree view into the pilot’s helmet visor, allowing them to literally look down through the floor of the cockpit.

• Vertical Landing: The Marine Corps F-35B variant can hover and land vertically like a helicopter on amphibious assault ships, which is called STOVL, Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing.