Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II

1h ago · © Judge Dredd

A Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II (A35-072) soars in beautiful light, showing off its advanced stealthy contours and the distinctive heat haze from its powerful engine.

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Lockheed Martin Lockheed Martin F-35a lightning II

Aircraft

F-35A Lightning II F35

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) standard camouflage/low-visibility military markings

A35-072

Registration

Manufacturer

Lockheed Martin

Gear

FUJIFILM X-S10 XC 50-230mm F4.5-6.7 OIS II

Achievements

Rare Bird, Golden Hour Glory, Military Maverick

3 badges earned

Photo grade

Gold

Score: 95.0

Stunning golden-hour side profile, crisp focus, visible heat haze and reg make this an elite shot!

Location

RAAF Base Richmond

XRH/YSRI

-33.6047, 150.7830

Open map

RAAF Base Richmond XRH

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

F-35 is the world’s first family of stealth multi-role combat aircraft in mass production; cornerstone of RAAF’s 5th generation air combat capability.

Fleet Rarity

One of fewer than 80 F-35As delivered or on order for the Royal Australian Air Force; F-35 globally is in relatively high production, but still rare compared to legacy fighters.

Record Flights

Not applicable for military types in peacetime.

Safety & Events

RAAF F-35s have thus far maintained a good operational record, with few notable incidents to date.

Future Outlook

Active service; expected to remain front-line until at least 2050.

Specifications

Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100

Engine

10.7 m

Wingspan

15.7 m

Length

2,200 km (internal fuel)

Range

1,930 km/h (Mach 1.6)

Speed

1 pilot (no passenger/cargo capacity)

Capacity

31,800 kg

MTOW

4.38 m

Height

191 kN (43,000 lbf) with afterburner

Thrust

Classified/military aircraft (not rated by civil ICAO noise standards)

Noise