Page 39 - Lessons-Learned-at-Pax-River_Neat

Answer: The great thing about the F-35 is that the human-machine interface (HMI) is so
good and so built around the pilot that you don’t have to learn how it works. You just
use it.

You can configure the screens to configure for the mission.

The aircraft is built to understand; you are building a strategy, not focusing on manag-
ing the sensors or really focused on the flying function.

I was able to see the aircraft surrounding me through the clouds, such as keeping dis-
tance with my tankers, by using my helmet and the Distributed Aperture System and
see the C-130s below me below the clouds.

Question: Did you have any problems with your helmet?

Answer: No. I used the Gen II helmet and the Gen III has improved the helmet, but my
helmet worked flawlessly during the flight. I was able to fulfill the mission and I am
here.

Question: How different is flying the Tornado compared to the F-35?

Answer: How can answer and be polite? There is no comparison. Recently, I flew the
Tornado after learning to fly the F-35. It was a real shock to go back in time.

I had to move my head and focus on the switches and sensors – you have to manage the
aircraft to fly.

The F-35 is totally different.

Question: What is it like to cross the Atlantic with DAS?

Answer: It is IR so much of its functionality is used during the night not the day, al-
though you do look through your legs and could see buildings, intersections, and vari-
ous landmarks while flying.

Question: Many more people saw Lindbourgh land at Le Bourget in 1927 than are
here today. There are four reporters here to witness your arrival, and let make no

Second Line of Defense Lessons Learned at Pax River
! !3 8