Stealth capable F-35A fighter aircraft were deployed to the European theater for training alongside the United States allies as part of the European Deterrence Initiative.
This is their second deployment to Europe. The first deployment were F-35As from the 34th Fighter Squadron/388 Fighter Wing to RAF Lakenheath, England, in April 2017. The 421st FS, also 388 Fighter Wing, based at Hill Air Force Base Utah, is the latest F-35A squadron, and this is their first deployment with the multi-role stealth fighter. The F-35As arrived at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 23, where they took part in the Astral Knight exercise, which also involved coalition forces from Croatia, Italy and Slovenia.

On June 11 the twelve aircraft were redeployed to Spangdahlem Air Force Base in Germany where they will participate in exercises and conduct training with other Europe-based aircraft as part of a Theater Security Package. The Theater Security Package is intended to rotate more U.S. military forces through Europe in order to deter adversaries, such as Russia, and reassure U.S. allies and partners that the nation is committed to the region’s security.

The 421 st “Black Widow” Fighter Squadron received its first F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft approximately six months ago and is the latest squadron in the US Air Force to operate the F-35A. They are deployed in Europe along with airmen from other active duty and reserve units at Hill, including the 466th Fighter Squadron. About 300 airmen, including 26 pilots, and 12 aircraft comprise the main deployment group.