The F-35 Lightning II program entered a new phase of testing with the arrival of F-35A AF-18 and AF-19, the first two of four operational test aircraft at Edwards AFB, California, on 6 March 2013. Team members from the 53rd Wing's 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron, a tenant unit at Edwards, will determine how to best tactically operate the F-35A. Another 53rd Wing squadron, the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis AFB, Nevada, is also taking part in the operational testing.
