A US Marine Corps Squadron Achieves Initial Operational Capability with its Multi-role F-35C Aircraft.

The Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 311, part of Marine Aircraft Group 11 within the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, declared initial operational capability (IOC) on July 31, 2024. This milestone underscores the Marine Corps' ongoing transition to advanced aviation technology, moving from older aircraft like the AV-8B Harrier and the F/A-18 Hornet to the F-35C Lightning II.
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The F-35C Lightning II. (Picture source: US DoD)

Achieving IOC means that VMFA-311 now possesses the operational aircraft, trained pilots, maintenance personnel, and support equipment necessary to execute critical mission tasks. These tasks include a range of combat operations, such as close air support, strike coordination and reconnaissance, anti-air warfare, suppression of enemy air defenses, and electronic attacks.

Major General James Wellons, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, praised the squadron’s achievements, stating, "I am incredibly proud of the Marines and Sailors in this squadron as they reach this critical milestone, ensuring greater lethality and operational readiness for the Wing, the Marine Corps, and the joint force."

The "Tomcats" of VMFA-311, reactivated in April 2023, have rapidly progressed, earning their "Safe for Flight" certification by September 2023. Since then, they have conducted over 900 sorties and 1,700 flight hours, in addition to completing more than 800 simulator hours and 2,400 maintenance actions to reach IOC.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Fisher, commanding officer of VMFA-311, highlighted the efforts of his team, saying, "Initial operational capability is a milestone and an achievement in readiness. It’s thanks to the Marines out there. What they do in their day-to-day actions is what made this possible."

VMFA-311 personnel have undergone intensive training at premier aviation schools. This includes Major Timothy Potter’s graduation from the U.S. Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor Program (TOPGUN) and Warrant Officer John Page’s completion of the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. These qualifications enhance the squadron’s ability to train and lead.

The next target for VMFA-311 is achieving full operational capability, anticipated in fiscal year 2025, upon receiving their full complement of ten F-35C aircraft. Fisher emphasized the squadron’s ongoing dedication, "Initial operational capability is a great accomplishment, but our goal remains full operational capability. We continue to pursue excellence daily."

With a heritage dating back to its original commission as VMF-311 in 1942, the squadron has a rich history of pioneering advancements in Marine Corps aviation. Over the years, they have flown various aircraft, from the F4U Corsair to the AV-8B Harrier II, and now the F-35C Lightning II. VMFA-311, alongside VMFA-314, is one of the first Marine Corps squadrons to operate the F-35C.

The versatile capabilities of the F-35C enhance the Marine Corps' ability to meet diverse mission requirements, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. Each variant of the F-35 offers unique advantages, with the F-35C specifically designed for carrier-based operations, featuring robust landing gear and foldable wings.

The Marine Corps' modernization efforts continue with eight operational F-35B squadrons and two training squadrons worldwide, complemented by the capabilities of the F-35Cs in VMFA-311 and VMFA-314. This transition to the F-35C Lightning II exemplifies the Marine Corps' ongoing commitment to maintaining advanced, adaptable combat capabilities in a dynamic global environment.