Aviation News – A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter has transported a retired F-35B Lightning II airframe from Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina.
The flight took place on August 27 and was conducted by a Marine aircrew from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 461, based at MCAS New River, North Carolina. The airframe, known as BF-1, made aviation history as the first F-35 to perform a vertical landing. Now stripped of its systems and outer wings, it will serve as a permanent static display at MCAS Beaufort.
“This operation highlights both the CH-53K’s unmatched lift capacity and our commitment to preserving Marine Corps aviation history,” said a Marine Corps spokesperson.
The arrival of BF-1 at MCAS Beaufort strengthens the base’s role as a center for F-35 training and operations. As a display aircraft, it will serve as a tangible reminder of the program’s early milestones while inspiring the next generation of pilots and maintainers.
The CH-53K’s successful transport mission underscores its readiness for operational deployment and demonstrates how retired aircraft can continue to contribute to education, heritage, and esprit de corps within the Marine Corps community.
Photo U.S. Marine Corps
