NICEVILLE, Fla. — The first F-35 Lightning II aircraft has arrived to support upcoming testing missions for the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base.
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According to Eglin Air Force Base, the aircraft arrived in October 2025 and marks the start of a new phase of testing expected to begin soon.
The aircraft, known as AF-3, will belong to the Cyber Systems Integration Lab under the 48th Cyberspace Test Squadron.
The lab is currently working toward an official stand-up and will focus on risk mitigation tied to all aspects of the Joint Strike Fighter program, according to the base.
Although the aircraft will reside at the 33rd Fighter Wing, it is expected to be located and maintained by the 96th Test Wing in the future.
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