Page 25 - Lessons-Learned-at-Pax-River_Neat

What has been missed is the success of this new approach and a revolutionary tactical
aircraft with the best cockpit information fusion system in the world shaping the way
ahead. Key elements, now being realized, that were built into the program to drive ef-
fective capability evolution going forward have been simply ignored or disdainfully
and ignorantly mocked in print.

The ITF at Pax is a case in point whereby the cross learning is significant; and the cross
learning with Edwards — as well as squadrons elsewhere — a key driver in innovation.

The F-35 as it evolves its software, and its ability to shape a more integrated combat ca-
pability in the extended battlespace is about a 21st century “no platform fights alone”
capability; it is not about getting ever more proficient in yesterday’s tactics, and sys-
tems; it is about a generational leap. The ITF at Pax understands this and is a key driver
for such change.

The future is in good hands if the quality of the three members of the ITF interviewed
about UK developments is any measure of the way ahead.

The first member of the discussion about UK engagement was with Gordon Stewart,
UK MoD engineer, with significant Harrier experience and a key participant in recent
ski jump testing.

The second member was Squadron Leader Andy “Gary” Edgell, RAF Test Pilot, who is
an experienced Harrier pilot and extensively involved in the F-35B and F-35C testing
process.

The third member was Tom Briggs, who was part of an earlier group of interviews, and
is the F-35 Pax River ITF Air Vehicle Chief Test Engineer, who works closely with the
Brits in shaping the capability that will fly to the UK in the form of the first IOC UK
squadron in 2018.

As we have noted earlier, the UK is shaping its first operational squadron in the US,
which will then fly to the UK in 2018 in time for the Queen Elizabeth sea trials. At the

Second Line of Defense Lessons Learned at Pax River
! 2! 4