The deployment to Sweden as part of Exercise Nordic Response 24 marked the first overseas exercise for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 since achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC) on Feb. 5. The historic landing of a U.S. F-35B on Swedish soil took place on March 13, 2024.
Held at Kallax Air Base in Lulea, Sweden, Exercise Nordic Response 24 aimed to bolster military capabilities and strengthen partnerships between NATO allies and partners under the demanding conditions of the Arctic environment. A key focus of the exercise was Distributed Aviation Operations, a tactic that disperses aircraft across various locations to enhance operational flexibility and resilience against potential adversaries.
During the exercise, four USMC F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters (JSF) from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 and a KC-130J Super Hercules refueler operated from Kallax Air Base. This deployment showcased the USMC’s ability to effectively launch, recover, refuel, and rearm aircraft in a non-traditional basing environment, highlighting the adaptability and efficiency of DAO.
This exercise held particular significance for VMFA-542, marking their first overseas deployment and exercise since achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC) on February 5, 2024. IOC signifies that VMFA-542 possesses sufficient operational F-35B Lightning II aircraft, trained pilots and maintainers, and supporting equipment to independently execute their mission-essential tasks. Their participation in Exercise Nordic Response 24 provided a valuable opportunity to test their newfound capabilities in a realistic operational setting alongside seasoned USMC personnel and NATO allies.
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