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Tri-Lightning: Joint F-35 exercise with Israel, US, and UK makes history

“The first three nations to put the F-35 into combat, together for the first time,” tweeted Thomas Newdick, editor of AirForces Monthly.

By World Israel News Staff

“F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft from the United States, United Kingdom, and Israel participated in Exercise Tri-Lightning over the Eastern Mediterranean Sea” on Tuesday, said the U.S. Air Force Central Command.

The U.S. Air Force F-35As flew from Al Dhafra Air Base, U.A.E.; the Royal Air Force F-35Bs flew from RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus; and, the Israeli Air Force F-35Is flew from Nevatim Air Base, Israel, according to the statement.

“The first three nations to put the F-35 into combat, together for the first time,” tweeted Thomas Newdick, editor of AirForces Monthly.

The IDF said that the unprecedented drill had taken place during Air Force Week, marking 71 years since the establishment of the IAF.

“The exercise today reflects the close cooperation between the participating nations,” said Brig. Gen. Amnon Ein-Dar, Israel Chief of Air Staff. “This training opportunity between Israel, the U.S., and Britain, strengthens shared capabilities and overall cooperation among allies.”

The IAF said that the exercise, led by the Americans, showcased “new and exclusive capabilities.”

“Tri-Lightning was an exercise which had been planned for months, and it provided an outstanding opportunity for the squadron to operate and learn from our fellow F-35 community,” said U.K. Wing Commander John Butcher, Squadron 617 commanding officer.

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Lockheed Martin says that “with stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity and range, the F-35 is the most lethal, survivable and connected fighter aircraft ever built.”

The company adds that “the F-35’s ability to collect, analyze and share data is a powerful force multiplier enhancing all airborne, surface, and ground-based assets in the battlespace, and enabling men and women in uniform to execute their mission and come home safe.”