A UK Forward Air Controller (FAC) has successfully used Rockwell Collins' FireStorm integrated targeting system to guide an F-35 Lightning II, the company announced on 21 April.
This marked the first time that a certified FAC used a digitally aided system for guiding an F-35 on a close air support flight test. The FAC used a complete air strike mission thread in both a ground test and live flight.
The test took place at the F-35 Lightning II flight test facility at Edwards Air Force Base, California, in coordination with the integrated project team from the UK F-35 Office.
The FireStorm targeting system is a modular Joint Fires system that provides digital connectivity with various coalition aircraft, field artillery systems and command-and-control centre battle managers.
Tommy Dodson, vice president and general manager of surface solutions, Rockwell Collins, said: 'The FAC approached the test from a practical standpoint and was able to use the system under simulated tactical conditions.
'The test was also significant because FireStorm is currently fielded by the British Army, and has now been proven to be interoperable with the F-35.'
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