F-35A

The F-35A is the Conventional Take-Off and Landing (CTOL) version of the F-35 Lightning II.

The F-35A is the baseline variant, designed for conventional air force operations from runways. It is the smallest and lightest of the three, with a maximum G limit of 9.0, making it highly agile for air superiority and strike missions.

It has the highest internal fuel capacity (8200kg) among the variants, enabling a combat radius of >1200km on internal fuel.

The F-35A uses boom and receptacle aerial refueling, with an option for probe-and-drogue modification, and includes a drag chute pod option for shorter landing distances, as utilized by the Royal Norwegian Air Force.

Its internal cannon with 220 rounds is integrated into the airframe, enhancing its multirole capabilities. It entered service with the U.S. Air Force on August 2, 2016, and is intended to replace the F-16 Fighting Falcon and A-10 Thunderbolt II

Each variant of the F-35 is tailored to meet the specific operational needs of its primary user:

• U.S. Air Force (F-35A)
• U.S. Marine Corps (F-35B)
• U.S. Navy (F-35C).

More information:

• About the F-35