The F-35B has successfully verified its Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) integration capbility by helping a Aegis system engage an over-the-horizon target using a SM-6 missile.
The U.S. Navy said the jet from VMX-1 “acted as an elevated sensor” during the test in New Mexico on Sept. 12. After picking up the target, the jet transmitted the information via its “Multi-Function Advanced Data Link to a ground station connected to USS Desert Ship (LLS-1), a land-based launch facility designed to simulate a ship at sea.”