Aircraft
F-35B Goes To Sea, Despite Support Challenges
The U.S. Marine Corps staged a two-month Pacific deployment on the USS Wasp, amidst concerns over the parts supply chain.
An F-35B lands on the USS Wasp, during the first operational at-sea deployment of the stealth fighter by the U.S. Marine Corps. (Photo: U.S. Navy)
An F-35B lands on the USS Wasp, during the first operational at-sea deployment of the stealth fighter by the U.S. Marine Corps. (Photo: U.S. Navy)

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) has completed its first operational at-sea deployment of the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II, a two-month tour on the USS Wasp. This deployment was also notable for testing the “upgunned” Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) concept, whereby a traditional three-ship ESG is joined by two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, to enhance the survivability and offensive capabilities of the group.