US Deploys First Operational Squadron of US Marine Corps F-35s on East Coast.

As of April 5, 2024, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542, under the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), has achieved full operational capability. This accomplishment marks VMFA-542 as the first squadron on the East Coast of the US Marine Corps for the F-35 Lightning II fighter within the Marine Force.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron. (Picture source: US DoD)

Full operational capability means that VMFA-542 is fully equipped and ready for active duty, having successfully transitioned from its previous tactical aircraft platform to the F-35B Lightning II. With this milestone, the squadron is now ready and authorized to deploy globally, providing support for planned or unforeseen operations. As the first operational fifth-generation fighter squadron under the 2nd MAW, VMFA-542 is prepared to execute its mission essential tasks (METs) in coordination with the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). These tasks include close air support, strike operations, reconnaissance, offensive anti-air warfare, suppression of enemy air defenses, electronic attack and support, and active air defense.

Lieutenant Colonel Brian Hansell, commanding officer of VMFA-542, stated, "Achieving full operational capability is a testament to the outstanding work and exemplary professionalism of the Marines of VMFA-542. This milestone signifies the integration of a combat-ready aviation squadron, equipped with unparalleled combat effectiveness and survivability, into the Marine Expeditionary Force. We are ready and capable of executing missions globally in support of the MAGTF as we prepare for future challenges."

The F-35, a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, features advanced stealth capabilities, agility, sensor integration, and real-time battlefield awareness for its pilots. Designed to confront sophisticated threats while enhancing lethality, survivability, and maintainability, the F-35B Lightning II variant, with its short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, can operate from amphibious assault ships and expeditionary airstrips measuring less than 2,000 feet in length.

VMFA-542 began its transition to the F-35B Lightning II in December 2022 and received its first F-35B aircraft on May 31, 2023. Subsequently, the squadron achieved initial operational capability on February 5 before reaching a significant milestone with the reception of its tenth aircraft on March 25, ultimately culminating in the attainment of full operational capability on April 3.

Additionally, VMFA-542 recently participated in Exercise Nordic Response 24 in Norway, a two-week initiative alongside NATO allies and partners. This exercise showcased military proficiency across various domains, including land, maritime, and aerial, in challenging Arctic and mountainous conditions. During the exercise, VMFA-542 conducted a distributed aviation operations event at Kallax Air Base in Lulea, Sweden, on March 13. This marked the first landing of a US F-35 Lightning II aircraft in Sweden, the first F-35 operation at Kallax Air Base, and one of Sweden's first training events as a NATO member.