The attack reportedly occurred last Friday (03/04) when the F-35 fighter was flying over the Iranian desert. According to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, this would be the second American fighter hit by Iranian defenses in over a month of war. One of the most stealthy and technologically advanced fighters created by the U.S., here is a complete technical sheet about the downed fighter.
What is the F-35?
The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter designed for air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare missions.
It is considered one of the most advanced military aircraft in the world, being used by the United States and various allied countries.
Who created it?
The project was led by Lockheed Martin, with important participation from:
• Northrop Grumman
• BAE Systems
The program originated from the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) project, created to replace older fighters such as the F-16, A-10, Harrier, and others.
Technology used
The great differential of the F-35 lies in its embedded technology.
1) Stealth
Its design reduces radar detection:
• Angular shape
• Smooth surfaces
• Radar-absorbing materials
• Internally carried weapons
This makes it difficult for enemy radars to detect it.
2) Sensors and radar
It has an extremely advanced sensor system:
• AESA radar
• 360° cameras
• Infrared sensors
• Long-range target tracking
The pilot receives everything integrated into the panel and the helmet.
3) Smart helmet
The pilot's helmet is one of the most famous systems of the F-35.
Allows:
• Aim just by looking at the target
• Night vision
• 'Through' vision of the aircraft via external cameras
• Real-time information on the display
Used storage
Internal weapon compartments
The F-35 has internal bays to maintain stealth.
In them it can carry:
• Air-to-air missiles
• Guided bombs
• Ground attack missiles
When stealth is not necessary, it also uses external hardpoints on the wings.
Fuel
Fuel is also stored internally.
The internal capacity is approximately:
• 8,382 kg of fuel in the F-35A
Engine
The fighter utilizes the powerful engine:
• Pratt & Whitney F135
Approximate thrust:
• 43,000 pounds with afterburner
Maximum speed:
• Mach 1.6+
around 1,930 km/h
In what situations is it used?
The F-35 is used in various military situations.
• Air superiority
• Combat other enemy aircraft.
• Ground attack
Destroy strategic targets:
• Bases
• Radars
• Anti-air systems
• Command centers
• Reconnaissance
• Intelligence collection and surveillance
• Electronic warfare
• Interference in enemy radars and communications.
Versions
There are 3 main versions:
• F-35A → conventional use by the air force
• F-35B → short takeoff and vertical landing
• F-35C → use on aircraft carriers
Value
The value depends on the version.
Approximate values per unit:
• F-35A: US$ 98 million
• F-35B: US$ 104 million
• F-35C: US$ 116 million
In reais, this can exceed R$ 500 million per aircraft, depending on the exchange rate.