U.S. Air Force Stands Up F-35 Aggressor Squadron
The U.S. Air Force is harnessing the capabilities of the F-35A to help train combat units that may encounter fifth-gen opponents in future air wars.
Seen during the unit re-establishment ceremony on June 9, a 65th Aggressor Squadron F-35A displays an unusual splinter-style camouflage. (Photo: U.S. Air Force)
Seen during the unit re-establishment ceremony on June 9, a 65th Aggressor Squadron F-35A displays an unusual splinter-style camouflage. (Photo: U.S. Air Force)

The U.S. Air Force has re-established the 65th Aggressor Squadron within the 57th Wing at Nellis AFB, Nevada, to operate Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning IIs in the “Red Air” dissimilar air combat training role. Immediately prior to the June 9 establishment ceremony, Air Combat Command chief General Mark Kelly flew an F-15E Strike Eagle in mock combat against the 65th AGRS’s first F-35A, which was piloted by the new squadron’s commander, Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Mauta.