Looks like the Marines while exercising in the Philippines have loaded up the USS Wasp (LHD-1)with an unusually large contingent of F-35Bs. This isn’t really surprising. I suspect that the USN will test out multiple configurations on the LHA/LHD and even LPDs. Where a US presence is required with an air presence, but not enough to warrant a CVN, these “light carriers” with F-35Bs will be a real force multiplier. When the Loyal Wingman drones come online down the road, there will be even more of a force multiplier effect.
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The LHAs had a similar configuration with Harriers, and an ASW loadout with LAMPS III. It will be interesting to see if there are exercises and cross-decking with the JMSDF and South Koreans.
Comment by Jeff Groves — April 4, 2019 @ 7:19 am
I predict the JMSDF will have 35Bs within 5 years. An indication I am right will be if there is cross-decking with them in the next year or two. Having the Harriers were nice, but the 35Bs really do seem to turn these into true light carriers.
Comment by dknights — April 4, 2019 @ 2:59 pm