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2d ago

Meteor Integration on F-35A Clears Ground Tests, Nears Flight Trials

One final ground trial remains before the program authorizes Meteor flight tests on the F-35A.

Two Meteor missiles are mounted in the F-35A weapons bay where clearances to aircraft structure, systems and adjacent stores are measured to ensure the missile can be safely stowed and deployed. (Image credit: F-35 JPO)

Overview

  • Engineers completed vibration testing and internal-bay fit checks at Edwards Air Force Base to verify safe carriage and release of Meteor without compromising stealth.
  • The F-35 Joint Program Office said only one additional ground test is needed prior to starting the flight-test phase.
  • Italy sponsors the F-35A integration while the United Kingdom leads the F-35B effort, following earlier inert Meteor flights on a US Marine Corps F-35B at NAS Patuxent River.
  • Program photos show validation with single- and two-missile configurations inside the F-35A weapons bay.
  • Meteor integration falls under Block 4 upgrades with fielding now expected in the early 2030s according to UK government statements.