Some great news, altough it is still in sort of cryptic language, but it seems in 2017 we will see – or some of us in Europe – the deployment of the F-35A. No countries or dates announced, but if we look at the following quotes, it sure looks 100%!
WASHINGTON: The Air Force’s F-35A will probably make its first operational deployment abroad “in the not too distant future… perhaps next summer,” heading to Europe to help NATO allies deter Russian aggression, Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James said yesterday.
We even found the following source as well:
Air Combat Command boss Gen. Hawk Carlisle said he has “absolutely no doubt” the F-35 will be deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve…You will see that airplane moving around the globe as quickly as I can possibly get it moving around the globe,” he said. “It’ll include going to the Pacific, it’ll include going to the Middle East, it’ll include Europe.
The aviationweek.com even mentions the unit:
The “Rude Rams” 34th Fighter Sqdn. here at Hill AFB, Utah, is gearing up to participate in a so-called theater security package (TSP) next year
Also, don’t forget that next RIAT, the USAF will be present, as of their 70th anniversary, a very possible F-35 demo is likely.
UPDATE 2017.04.15:
News came a day ago:
The U.S. Air Force will deploy a small number of F-35A Lightning II aircraft this weekend on a long-planned training deployment to Europe. The aircraft are scheduled to conduct training with other U.S. and NATO aircraft based in Europe for several weeks as part of the European Reassurance Initiative. – www.defense.gov
