F-35C makes first Catapult launch

[StoleIt]

F-35C carrier-variant test aircraft CF-3 has made its first catapult launch today (July 27) using the land-based steam catapult at NAS Lakehurst, where the U.S. Navy's version of the JSF is undergoing carrier suitability testing.

Source: https://www.aviationweek.com/aw/blogs/defense/index.jsp?plckController=Blog&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&newspaperUserId=27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3aad00342f-3d8c-47ea-b3b3-afbfe02c64e2&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest

I wonder if it has the autopilot hands off take offs like the F/A-18's...probably does since that seems to be the new technology but curious none the less.

Edited July 28, 2011 by stoleit2x

[LoneStar]

Sweet...how many more years till we see it fly off the carrier? over under on 5?

[ForgotPassword]

Off any carrier? Under 5

[StoleIt]

I bet they will actually do carrier testing in the next 3.

Combat ready on a carrier will be 5+.

[Archa3opt3ryx]

Vid: https://gizmodo.com/5825544/watch-the-screaming-first-ever-catapult-launch-of-the-killer-f+35

Also relevant: https://gizmodo.com/5825544/watch-the-screaming-first-ever-catapult-launch-of-the-killer-f+35

https://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123264068

Edited July 28, 2011 by LoneWolf121188

[Buddy Spike]

No barrel roll? That can't be considered a successful launch.

[Cell Dweller]

I think an 80's rock ballad to go along with it would have been nice

[MT near]

Did it get a CCIP yet?

[brabus]

Did it get a CCIP yet?

Why would it...useless. So is a gun or any kind of decent rearward visibility. This is the 21st century and the need for any of those will never come up again...ever.