The fifth generation F-35 Lightning II fighter with European Meteor long-range air-to-air missiles has undergone ground tests. This brings the fighter closer to being equipped with new weapons, write Break the defense.
“The F-35A fighter is one step closer to being capable of carrying the European Meteor air-to-air missile after recently completing a series of integrated ground tests in the United States,” the document said.
Ground tests taking place at Edwards Air Force Base in California confirmed the safety of placing the missile in the F-35's internal compartment. It should be noted that after another phase of ground testing, F-35A operators will be allowed to conduct test flights.
Italy is funding the work to integrate Meteor into the F-35A base arsenal and the UK is leading the process of equipping the F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft with the missile.
In March, The National Interest magazine wrote that equipping the F-35 with Meteor missiles will significantly increase the combat capabilities of the air forces operating these aircraft. The maximum flight range of the missile can exceed 200 km.
