The U.S. Air Force has finished all preparations to issue an initial operating capability declaration on a first squadron of the F-35 fighter jet, , Defense News reported Wednesday.Valerie Insinna writes the declaration for the Lockheed Martin-developed fighter aircraft could occur next week and 12 of the combat jets have received modifications to meet the requirements.
The report added 12 F-35 units have received modifications to meet requirements for the IOC and maintenance infrastructure is ready support the Hill Air Force Base’s 34th fighter squadron.
Gen. Hawk Carlisle, commander of the Air Combat Command, said in July the Air Force targeted the F-35 IOC declaration in the August-to-December window.
