F-35 pilots 'measure' up as beginning of training moves closer

Defense Professionals ^ | 3/2/2010 | Ashley M. Wright

[ErnstStavroBlofeld]

Pilots here received measurements for the first F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter equipment to move closer to training in the military's newest fighter aircraft Feb. 25 here.

The new pilot equipment includes everything from underwear to cold-weather outer gear to anti-G garments.

RFD Beaufort, the Lockheed Martin sub-contractor making the new equipment, took controlled measurements down to the millimeter to ensure comfort, safety and the pilot's capability to complete the mission in any scenario. Some of the equipment used by the first F-35 pilots will be based on legacy gear found on previous fighter aircraft.

"The wing continues to work toward establishing the first (Department of Defense) training center for the F-35 joint strike fighter," said Marine Col. Arthur Tomassetti, the 33rd Fighter Wing commander. "While measuring an individual for flight equipment might seem like a small step, every step brings us closer to being able to commence training at Eglin. The level of sophistication and technology on the new equipment is indicative of the advancement this new weapons system provides our Marines, sailors and Airmen."

"A lot of the engineering has improved since the legacy equipment," said Maj. Eric Smith, the 58th Fighter Squadron assistant director of operations. "It is a great step forward with the next generation of aircraft."

Major Smith, who has flown A-10 Thunderbolt IIs and F-16 Fighting Falcons, said receiving measurements for the F-35 was much more detailed than previous experiences.

"This seems a lot more science based as they are taking a lot more measurements," said the 15-year Air Force veteran. "With legacy equipment, all they do is ask for height and weight."

[freedumb2003]

>>Major Smith, who has flown A-10 Thunderbolt IIs and F-16 Fighting Falcons, said receiving measurements for the F-35 was much more detailed than previous experiences. <<
Major Smith is a man to believed. He has also lived my dream — to have flown the greatest CAP and CAS assets, maybe EVER. It never occurred to me that the same skills needed to fly the Falcon would be needed to fly the Warthog (which is beautiful in a beefy way). But on reflection it makes great sense.

I still think the F35 is problematic and it is insanity to stop the F22.

Just sayin’

[Yo-Yo]

Take your time with the equipment measurements, gentlemen. No rush.

Future F-35 pilots will get to wear a spiffy new helmet, though!

[flowerplough]

F-35 pilots ‘measure’ up, but the plane probably won’t. An aerial jack of(f) all trades might well be a master of none.