Over an Atlantic test range, Lockheed Martin test pilot Dan Levin flies F-35B test aircraft BF-2 with external weapons pylons for the first time Feb. 22.
The test measured flying qualities with external pylons, inert AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles and centerline 25 mm gun pod.
Significant weapons testing for the F-35B and F-35C variants is scheduled for 2012, including fit checks, captive carriage, pit drop and aerial drop tests.
Press Release Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, February 23, 2012
Earlier we wrote:
GETTING ON WITH IT: THE F35 GETS READY FOR PRIME TIME
With the maturing of the combat systems on the F-35 demonstrated in the maneuver warfare from the sea Bold Alligator 2012 exercise, and the weapons testing about to begin, the F-35 is ready for ramped up production. 4 a month will be produced this summer. There will be little excuse to go backwards when the initial combat systems can be combined with weapons in an advanced “flying combat system.”
https://www.sldinfo.com/getting-on-with-it-the-f35-gets-ready-for-prime-time/
Credit Video: Lockheed Martin