The 461st FLTS has expanded to include six TR-3 test aircraft alongside a similar number of aircraft in the original TR-2 configuration. This allows the unit to make direct comparisons of four-ship operations by both types

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006

The F-35A's low observable capabilities provide the aircraft with an operational edge, but they also make the type more difficult to upgrade and modify than conventional fourth-generation fighters

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006

Major Ryan 'Bolo' Luersen from the 461st Flight test Squadron, made the first flight of and F-35 in the Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) configuration on January 6, 2023, at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The F-35 is claimed to be the most lethal, survivable, and interoperable fighter ever built. It may also be the most troubled USAF programme in recent history

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006

This aircraft (20-5578) was the first TR-3 jet for the 461st Flight Test Squadron, arriving with the unit in August 2022, when it still looked brand new and pristine

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006

These aircraft (an F-35A nearest the camera and an F-35C) were pictured while testing the TR-3 configuration

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006Lockheed F-35C Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2010

The AN/APG-85 will replace the F-35A's AN/APG-81 radar in Block 4, though the new set will have to fit the same volume, relying on new technologies (including GaN semiconductors) to leverage enhanced performance. A fixed AESA now seems archaic to many!

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006

The already-bleeding edge F-35 cockpit will receive new displays as part of TR-3. Questions remain about whether the TR-3 and Block 4 upgrades will actually deliver the capabilities required for tomorrow's fight

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006

Some of the hardware elements of the Block 4 upgrade - as it was conceived before being 'truncated'

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed F-35A Lightning II - СШАUSA - 2006