Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global aerospace, defence, and security company renowned for its cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions. Among its numerous achievements, the company has developed several iconic fighter jets, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-22 Raptor, and F-35 Lightning II.
The F-16, a multirole fighter, has been a mainstay in air forces around the world since its first flight in 1974. Known for its agility and versatility, the F-16 excels in various combat scenarios, from air-to-air engagements to ground attack missions.
The F-22 Raptor represents a leap forward in stealth and situational awareness. As the first operational fifth-generation fighter aircraft, it combines superior speed, agility, and advanced avionics, making it the premier air superiority fighter in the modern battlefield.
The F-35 Lightning II family of aircraft further pushes the boundaries of military aviation. Designed for versatility with three distinct variants — F-35A (conventional takeoff and landing), F-35B (short takeoff and vertical landing), and F-35C (carrier-based) — the F-35 integrates advanced stealth technology, sensor fusion, and networked warfare capabilities, providing unparalleled operational flexibility.
Lockheed Martin continues to pave the way in aerospace innovation, ensuring that these advanced fighter jets meet the evolving needs of air forces globally.
F-16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft developed by General Dynamics and latterly Lockheed Martin. Introduced in the late 1970s, it has become one of the most versatile and widely used aircraft in military aviation history. Notable for its agility and advanced avionics, the F-16 is designed for various roles, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, and close air support. Its lightweight frame and high thrust-to-weight ratio give it impressive manoeuvrability, allowing pilots to engage effectively in both dogfights and precision strikes. The aircraft has been continuously upgraded since its inception, incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance its capabilities and maintain its status as a formidable presence in modern air forces worldwide.
Seen below are a selection of photos showing the Belgian Air Component F-16s at RAF Waddington for Cobra Warrior 23-1 in March 2023 and at RAF Fairford for the yearly Royal International Air Tattoo held at the airbase
Seen below are a handful of Royal Danish Air Force F-16s at the yearly Royal International Air Tattoo based at RAF Fairford
Seen Below are a selection of photos taken back in 2022 at the Royal International Air Tattoo of the Hellenic (Greek) Air Force F-16 Zeus solo display
Seen below back in 2022 are a pair of Dutch F-16s Arriving at RAF Fairford for the Royal International Air Tattoo on the Friday afternoon after the flying displays had finished for the day
Seen below are a selection of photos from RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath featuring deployed United States Air Forces Europe F-16s from both the 31st fighter wing based at Aviano Air Base and the 52nd fighter wing based at Spangdahlem Air Base
Seen below are a selection of 35th fighter wing F16s at their home air base at Misawa Air Base on the northern tip of Honshu, Japan
F-22 Raptor
The F-22 Raptor is an exceptionally advanced multi-role fighter aircraft that has been meticulously developed by the renowned aerospace company Lockheed Martin. Specifically designed with an emphasis on achieving air superiority, the F-22 incorporates state-of-the-art stealth technology, impressive supercruise capabilities, and highly advanced avionics, collectively making it one of the most formidable and sought-after aircraft in the realm of modern warfare. It features a distinctive design characterized by its angular lines and an innovative internal weapons bay, which significantly reduces its radar signature, allowing for greater tactical advantage. The aircraft is adept at engaging multiple air and ground targets simultaneously, utilizing an array of advanced weaponry and extremely sophisticated sensors to gain a crucial edge in various combat scenarios. With its remarkable blend of speed, agility, and cutting-edge technology, the F-22 continues to remain an integral and invaluable part of the United States Air Force's broader strategic capabilities.
Seen below are a selection of F-22 Raptors from the 3rd wing, 90th fighter squadron based in Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson in Alaska, these were seen at both RAF Lakenheath in the UK then a few months later at Kadena Air Base on Okinawa island, Japan
F-35 Lightning II
The F-35 Lightning II is a family of stealth multirole fighters designed to perform a variety of missions across diverse combat environments. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the aircraft incorporates advanced stealth technology, cutting-edge avionics, and a networked combat environment, enabling it to execute precision strikes while remaining undetected by enemy radar systems. With three distinct variants—the F-35A for conventional takeoff and landing, the F-35B for short takeoff and vertical landing, and the F-35C for carrier operations—the Lightning II is engineered to meet the needs of different branches of the armed forces and allied nations. Its versatility, coupled with a suite of sophisticated sensor capabilities, positions the F-35 as a cornerstone of modern air warfare and a key asset in joint operations.
Seen below are several F-35As from the Japan Air Self Defence Force these were all captured out in Japan back in November 2022 at Tsuiki and Misawa Air Bases
Norway has a total of 40 F-35A aircraft aircraft on order to replace the older F-16 fighting falcons, seen below is one from a recent deployment of 6 F-35s to RAF Lakenheath
The RAF has a fleet of 34 F-35Bs the Short take off and vertical landing variant for use on the Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers, seen below are a couple of pictures from one of the recent Royal International Air Tattoo’s held at RAF Fairford
Seen Below are a selection of F-35As from United States Air Force Europe 48th fighter wing, consisting of two squadrons that operate the F-35A, the 493rd fighter squadron “Grim Reapers” and the 495th fighter squadron “Valkyries”
Seen above are a pair of United States Air Force F-35As based at Hill Air Force base in Utah, these are seen departing RAF Mildenhall heading back to their home base in Utah being towed by a KC-10 Extender after a deployment in the sandbox
