Lockheed-Martin X-35 facts for kids

Lockheed-Martin X-35C flying during a test.

The Lockheed-Martin X-35 was a special test airplane built in the United States. It was designed to try out new ideas for a future fighter jet. This test plane was chosen over another one, the Boeing X-32, for a big project called the Joint Strike Fighter program. Three different versions of the X-35 were made to test various ideas. The final fighter jets that came from these tests are now known as the F-35 Lightning II.

Different Versions of the X-35

The X-35 was built in three main versions, each designed to meet different needs for the US military. These versions helped engineers test how the future F-35 jets would fly and land.

X-35A: For the Air Force

• The X-35A was designed to replace older planes like the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon and the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II for the United States Air Force. This version focused on speed and agility for air combat.

X-35B: For the Marines

• The X-35B was built for the United States Marine Corps. It was meant to replace the McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II. This version was special because it could take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, which is very useful for ships and small bases.

X-35C: For the Navy

• The X-35C was designed for the United States Navy. It was intended to replace the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. This version had larger wings to help it land safely on aircraft carriers at sea.