An F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 successfully conducted the first hot-load and test firing of an air-to-air missile during Weapons and Tactics Instructors Course 1-18, Sept. 21. 

The process validated to the cadre at Weapons and Tactics Squadron that the F-35B is capable of being rearmed with air-to-air ordnance while its engine is still running.

Aviation ordnance technicians conducted the hot-load with AMRAMM AIM-120 missiles. Once complete, the F-35B effectively engaged an aerial target known as a Tactical Air Launch Decoy.   

This event confirms the fifth generation fighter’s versatility as an asset to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

During the Weapons and Tactics Instructors Course, service members learn and apply the latest in aviation, ground, and support tactics, techniques and procedures as an integrated Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

The MAWTS-1 commanding officer will conduct a press conference mid-October. Future media advisories will be released with further details and coordinating instructions.