The Lockheed F-35 is an advanced stealth fifth generation fighter combining speed and superb agility. There are three variants; F-35A, B and C. The F-35A CTOL (Conventional Take Off and Landing) and has four internal weapons stations in two weapons bays plus three optional external weapons stations. The F-35B STOVL (Short Take Off Vertical Landing) variant while the F-35C is a CV (Carrier Variant). The F-35 will replace the USAF A-10 and F-16, the F/A-18 for the USN and the F/A-18 and AV-8B Harrier for the USMC.

The first four USAF F-35A Lightning IIs arrived at RAF Lakenheath on December 15, 2021. These aircraft were 19-5473, 74, 75 and 76 with 3 more F-35As arriving two months later to the 48th FW “The Statue of Liberty Wing”. After some debate over a name for the 495th FS, in mid February the name “Valkyries” was chosen. “Valkyries” were Norse mythology female figures who decided who lived or die in battle. The 495th FS motto: 'Mala Ipsa Nova' means 'Bad News Itself' along with “Valkyries” is a very menacing combination.

Info:   Lockheed F-35A Lightning II 19-5473, 495th FS, 48th FW, RAF Lakenheath, December 2021