Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
The integration of the F-35B Lightning II variant aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ships like the USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) represents a massive leap in power projection for United States Marine Corps (USMC) aviation.
By operating off an LHD rather than a traditional supercarrier, the F-35B gives Expeditionary Strike Groups localized, fifth-generation stealth and strike capabilities right from the amphibious fleet.
The Tactical Shift: With the F-35B, an amphibious assault ship transitions from a platform primarily designed to transport troops into a light carrier capable of executing deep precision strikes, suppressing enemy air defenses, and maintaining local air superiority.
The integration of the F-35B Lightning II variant aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ships like the USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) represents a massive leap in power projection for United States Marine Corps (USMC) aviation.
By operating off an LHD rather than a traditional supercarrier, the F-35B gives Expeditionary Strike Groups localized, fifth-generation stealth and strike capabilities right from the amphibious fleet.
The Tactical Shift: With the F-35B, an amphibious assault ship transitions from a platform primarily designed to transport troops into a light carrier capable of executing deep precision strikes, suppressing enemy air defenses, and maintaining local air superiority.
