Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, today offered congratulations to the United States Marine Corps for the stand-up and dedication of its first operational squadron of F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma.

Tom Hartmann, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President – Defence, said, “Rolls-Royce congratulates the US Marine Corps for this significant milestone, as military aviation leaps forward into a new era. Rolls-Royce is proud to support the Marine Corps during this important transition from training to tactical aviation in the F-35B.”

The new Marine Corps jets comprise the beginning of the first operational fleet for the F-35 program, and will be part of the newly re-designated VMFA-121 aircraft squadron at MCAS Yuma in Arizona.

The F-35B aircraft, equipped with the unique Rolls-Royce LiftSystem®, provide short take off and vertical landing, or STOVL, capability. Rolls-Royce will support VMFA-121 through technical assistance and Field Service Representatives at MCAS Yuma.

The LiftSystem is part of the F-35B propulsion system, powered by the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine. The LiftSystem includes the Rolls-Royce LiftFan®, shaft, gearbox, 3-Bearing Swivel Module, and roll posts. The propulsion system allows an F-35B to operate from aircraft carriers, short-deck amphibious ships, or austere, forward locations which lack lengthy runways. The Lockheed Martin F-35B is the only fifth-generation STOVL aircraft in the world.

MCAS Yuma is scheduled to receive four operational squadrons of up to 16 F-35s each, plus an Operational Test and Evaluation squadron with up to eight aircraft

Rolls Royce press release