The Lockheed F-35 is an advanced stealth fifth generation fighter combining speed and superb agility. There are three variants; F-35A, B and C. The F-35A CTOL (Conventional Take Off and Landing) and has four internal weapons stations in two weapons bays plus three optional external weapons stations. The F-35B STOVL (Short Take Off Vertical Landing) variant while the F-35C is a CV (Carrier Variant). The F-35 will replace the USAF A-10 and F-16, the F/A-18 for the USN and the F/A-18 and AV-8B Harrier for the USMC.
In August 1983 No. 75 Squadron became the first RAAF fighter squadron to be permanently based in the Northern Territory since World War II. In May 1988 the RAAF acquired 55 F/A-18As and 16 F/A-18Bs. RAAF 75 Squadron; based at Tindal was the last unit to fly the F/A- 18A. On December 4, 2021 the Hornet made its final flight and five days later the first F-35A was delivered. One of the F-35As received was A35-029 c/n AU-29 U.S. serial 18-5400. In June 2022 No. 75 Squadron celebrated its 80th Anniversary.
