Different versions of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter will be operated by the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marine Corps. The short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) version is shown here hovering with its dorsal inlet open to provide air for the large downward-thrust-producing fan located in the fuselage and its engine exhaust nozzle pointed down to provide thrust vertically. The STOVL version of the F-35 will be operated by the U.S. Marine Corps and -- if the United States agrees to provide the United Kingdom with certain technological and maintenance information associated with the aircraft -- the Royal Air Force. Credit: Lockheed Martin
