The U.S. Marines tested the ‘Lightning Carrier’ concept on April 3 and broke a record in the process. USS Tripoli (LHA-7) loaded a record-breaking 16 F-35Bs from three squadrons aboard its deck during the week-long Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 13 training exercise.  

By working this concept aboard the Tripoli, the crew is identifying and building capabilities for the big deck while the Marines and their jets conduct integrated MAG-level operations at sea. All crews learn more about launching, recovering, moving, maneuvering and working on the F-35Bs aboard the Navy’s newest big deck amphibious warship. Read more: Marines Load Record 16 F-35Bs Aboard USS Tripoli Test of ‘Lightning Carrier’ Concept - USNI News