As future threat advances, adding new capabilities ensures the F-35 stays ahead of our adversaries and further deters aggression. Realistic testing is important in the face of current and developing world events. 

In May, the U.S. Operational Test Team (UOTT) conducted four large-scale, joint F-35 test events in four weeks, rapidly validating a series of new F-35 capabilities. The UOTT works with the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center and the Navy’s Commander Operational Test & Evaluation Force. The team partners with F-35 squadrons to test and better understand what the F-35 brings to the fight. For example, the UOTT has been conducting missions designed to verify F-35 combat capability of the 30P07 software upgrade since November 2021. 

The joint team of Airmen, Sailors, Marines, and Guardians used 32 aircraft and more than 500,000 pounds of airborne fuel to complete the high-tempo testing across land and sea ranges. U.S. Operational Test Team Completes High-Tempo, Joint Testing on F-35