First USMC F-35C squadron FOC

On 1 July 2021, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314 Black Knights ('VW-3xx') declared full operational capability (FOC) on the F-35C Lightning II. With this milestone, VMFA-314 is the first F-35C squadron in the USMC to declare FOC.

The unit, based at MCAS Miramar (CA), will deploy as part of a Carrier Strike Group (CSG) in 2022. The unit's first F-35Cs arrived on 21 January 2020.

VMFA-314 is currently continuing its preparations towards future deployments by conducting tailored ship's training availability (TSTA), marking the first F-35C squadron to conduct TSTA in the USMC. The training will consist of communication rehearsals, medical drills, flight operations, and shipboard drills conducted while underway, ensuring the squadron is prepared to deploy in support of maritime campaigns.

On 3 December 2020, Scramble Magazine reported on the Black Knight's initial operational capability (IOC).

Photo by USMC