September 2020 – Decimomannu Air Base
After the presentation of the F. 35 in STOVL version (Short Take Off Vertical Landing) held last 30 July in Pantelleria (see which), the time has come to test the performance of the latest arrival in the ranks of the Air Force, during an exercise that involved him together with conventional specimens, carrying out their own missions and performing both conventional and short / vertical landings. . The opportunity arose in September when the only one (at the moment) F 35B under the AM has moved, with 6 F 35A , in the base of Decimomannu, headquarters of the RSS / AWTI (Experimental and Standardization Department for Aerial Shooting / Air Weapons Training Installation) to carry out unspecified exercises.
in 15 about days of stay, both day and night missions were carried out.
The enviable weather of the island located in the middle of the Mediterranean made it possible to carry out what was planned without problems.
The friend Roberto Zanda, always eats, provided us with photographic coverage (external) of the event, and was able to capture some really interesting photos: in addition to the Lightning of both versions ,also took over Typhoon and HH 101 CAESAR. The latter, in particular, still not handed over to the Armed Force, with crew in part still of Leonardo, it is portrayed in the latest available configuration.
I remember that, according to the latest news, Italy will buy 90 specimens of the new 5th generation fighter: 60 Conventional F 35A e 30 F 35B STOVL. Of the latter, 15 specimens will go to the Air Force e 15 to the Navy.
Photo: Roberto Zanda
Text: AviaSpotter.it
