As the spearhead of 5th-generation air power, the F-35 Lightning II began its journey as the Joint Strike Fighter program, designed to replace a variety of aging US Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy fighter fleets. Since entering service in 2015, the F-35 in its three distinct variants (A - Air Force, B - Marines, and C - Navy), has become much more than a fighter jet; it's a flying computer that uses stealth, sensor fusion, and unparalleled data-sharing capabilities to act as the "quarterback of the skies" for the entire joint and allied force. The F-35 is actively deployed worldwide, with recent missions ranging from a historic deployments to the Middle East supporting regional security to continuous participation in major international exercises like Red Flag. With ongoing upgrades like the Block 4 modernization, which is set to add significant new weapons capabilities and advanced electronic warfare, the F-35 is slated to remain the cornerstone of U.S. and allied air superiority well into 2070.

Learn more about the F-35 and 54 other aircraft in service with the U.S. Armed Forces in our Aircraft Recognition Playing Cards deck!