F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office

News

  • September 23, 2021
  • VMFA-211 First Squadron To Load GBU-49 Onto HMS Queen Elizabeth F-35Bs
  • Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 loaded, armed, and employed a Guided Bomb Unit (GBU) 49 onto an F-35B on September 12. VMFA-211 "Wake Island Avengers" are the first squadron to employ the GBU-49 from a Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier. The GBU-49 is a laser and GPS-guided bomb effective across various conditions and against many types of moving or stationary targets. The enhanced computer-controlled guidance the GBU-49 increases the accuracy with which pilots can engage targets and the effectiveness with which they can reduce the capability of an enemy's threat. (Read more...)