Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 251, a part of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), received its first F-35C Lightning II jet today at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, North Carolina.
According to a press release, the event marks the start of F-35C deliveries to MCAS Cherry Point, continuing the Marine Corps’ transition from legacy aircraft to the fifth-generation F-35.
VMFA-251, known as the “Thunderbolts” or “T-Bolts,” is the Marine Corps’ first East Coast operational F-35C squadron. The F-35C variant, designed for carrier-based operations, boasts advanced stealth, agility, maneuverability, and real-time sensor fusion, providing pilots with a significant battlefield advantage. Its superior internal fuel capacity gives it a longer combat radius and extended on-station times compared to the F-35B variant, which is designed for short takeoff and vertical landing.
“Today’s arrival of our first carrier-based, fifth-generation fighter-attack aircraft represents an enormous milestone for MAG-14, MCAS Cherry Point, 2nd MAW, and the F-35 community,” said Col. Benjamin Grant, commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 14. “The one-two punch provided by the F-35C’s increased range and the F-35B’s STOVL capability will give MAG-14 and the Marine Air-Ground Task Force a significant advantage in the future fight.”
The F-35C will play a pivotal role in expanding the combat capabilities of Marine aviation, especially as the Marine Corps continues to integrate fifth-generation aircraft into its fleet. Its ability to operate from both land bases and conventional aircraft carriers makes it a versatile asset for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) and the U.S. Navy’s joint operations.
VMFA-251 had been deactivated in 2020 after returning from a deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The squadron, which had flown F/A-18 Hornets for 34 years, was relocated to MCAS Cherry Point to begin its transition to the F-35C and is now working toward official reactivation and Safe for Flight certification.
Lt. Col. Evan Shockley, commanding officer of VMFA-251 and the pilot of the newly delivered F-35C, highlighted the significance of the new aircraft. “The F-35C Lightning II brings tremendous combat power to 2nd MAW, MAG-14, and MCAS Cherry Point. Its range, firepower, sensors, and survivability, coupled with the fact that it is truly a Joint aircraft, makes it a lethal asset for Marine aviation.”
The Thunderbolts are expected to reactivate in the coming months, continuing their legacy with the advanced F-35C platform. VMFA-251’s reactivation and transition to the F-35C are part of the broader efforts to ensure the Marine Corps remains equipped to face modern threats in a rapidly changing global security environment.
As the aviation combat element of the II Marine Expeditionary Force, 2nd MAW is poised to lead the Marine Corps into the future with the enhanced capabilities provided by the F-35C.