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A US Marine Corps squadron flying the F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter has returned from a landmark five-month deployment to the Middle East earlier this month, completing more than 1,000 combat sorties and marking a major step in Marine aviation and joint operations. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542 (VMFA-542), known as the “Tigers,” operated under US Central Command (CENTCOM) from spring to fall 2025. The squadron conducted close air support, armed overwatch, and defensive counter-air missions supporting US and allied forces throughout the region. Integrated combat operations The unit conducted 1,099 combat flights and logged 4,736 safe flight hours, according to the Marine Corps. It also maintained one of the highest aircraft readiness rates in the fleet. F-35B can take off and land vertically. This feature helps the squadron provide support in various challenging places. “VMFA-542’s historic deployment has set new benchmarks for Marine Corps aviation, demonstrating that a forward-deployed F-35B squadron can deliver unmatched combat power and readiness while seamlessly integrating with Joint Forces during a major regional crisis,” said Lt Col Carlo F. Bonci, Executive Officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542. Operating as part of CENTCOM’s Air Component, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central), VMFA-542 worked alongside US Navy, Army, coalition, and partner nation forces. The squadron supported air and ground operations, advancing F-35 tactics, techniques, and procedures in real-world missions. Such deployments showed that the F-35B can take on many combat tasks. It can protect airspace, target enemies, and collect intelligence. The aircraft has a stealthy design and uses advanced sensors. These features help commanders understand situations better and aim accurately. This support helps them take control of the air and assist ground forces in difficult areas. Officials said the squadron’s operations also strengthened maritime security and deterrence in the region, as the F-35B integrated with allied air forces in combined exercises and live operations. A new era of marine aviation The F-35B, a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the Joint Strike Fighter, gives the Marine Corps unprecedented operational agility. It can operate from expeditionary bases, amphibious assault ships, or traditional runways, allowing Marines to project power rapidly in complex environments. VMFA-542’s successful integration into CENTCOM air operations marks one of the most extensive deployments of the Marine Corps’ fifth-generation aircraft. The unit has set a strong example for future missions using advanced technology while focusing on quick deployment. Marine Corps leaders stated that the mission demonstrated the F-35B’s readiness for combat and confirmed the aircraft’s important role in joint and coalition operations, where sharing information and making quick decisions are vital. The deployment reflects the Marine Corps’s effort to modernize its aviation forces and maintain an edge in great-power competition. Officials said the squadron’s performance enhanced US regional deterrence and reinforced partnerships with allies through integrated operations and shared training. As global tensions remain high, the Marine Corps highlighted that forward-deployed aviation units like VMFA-542 play a key role in maintaining US influence and quickly responding to new threats.
