U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II strike fighter aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, fly alongside a KC-130J Super Hercules tanker aircraft assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 152, during an aerial refueling exercise in the vicinity of the Miyako Strait, Aug. 21, 2024.
The air-to-air refueling extends the patrolling and strike range abilities of F-35Bs, outspreading a 5th generation multi-discipline strike capability to support combined-joint all domain operations in key maritime terrain.
The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.
MIYAKO STRAIT, PHILIPPINE SEA
08.21.2024
Video by Cpl. Christopher Lape
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit