JACKSONVILLE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Fla. - The Florida Air National Guard officially entered the fifth-generation fighter era with the arrival of its first F-35A Lightning II March 4. The milestone makes the 125th Fighter Wing, known as ”the Thunder,” the fourth Air National Guard unit to receive the advanced fighter, reinforcing the Air Force’s global defense strategy.
The F-35 isn’t just another jet — it’s a technological leap forward. With cutting-edge stealth, electronic warfare and sensor fusion capabilities, the aircraft is designed to dominate in contested environments, ensuring the ANG remains an integral part of the nation’s defense posture. Its arrival in Jacksonville underscores the Department of Defense’s strategic focus on modernizing airpower to counter emerging threats.
The 125th FW’s new aircraft will bolster U.S. airpower along the southeastern coast, a critical area for homeland defense and global force projection. Jacksonville, home to Naval Station Mayport and Naval Air Station Jacksonville, provides a prime location for joint-force integration. The introduction of the F-35 strengthens interoperability between the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, reinforcing Florida’s role as a national security hub.
As the 125th FW transitions to the F-35, the wing remains committed to its 24/7 homeland defense mission, ensuring the nation is protected against any potential threats. Ready to respond at a moment’s notice, the F-35 will eventually become the primary aircraft securing the southeastern United States, further enhancing rapid-response capabilities in crises.
“The F-35 is a cornerstone to our national defense,” said Col. Mansour Elhihi, commander of the 125th FW. “This advanced aircraft directly supports our national security objectives, keeping us poised to respond, dominate and win in any battle space.”
As part of the transition to the F-35, the 125th FW is upgrading hangars, maintenance facilities and new training simulators to support the F-35.
“The F-35 ensures the ANG remains at the forefront of national defense,” said Maj. Gen. John D. Haas, adjutant general of the Florida National Guard. “This aircraft embodies recapitalization and modernization, ensuring our Airmen remain right, ready and relevant to meet homeland security defense needs.”
The integration of the F-35 also ensures the 125th FW is aligned with the DOD’s Agile Combat Employment strategy, which emphasizes rapid mobility, decentralized operations and resilience in contested environments. With the ability to deploy quickly and operate from austere locations, the 125th FW enhances its strategic flexibility in future conflicts.
Pilots and maintainers are training with state-of-the-art simulators and mission planning systems to maximize the F-35’s capabilities.
“The F-35 is going to redefine how we operate,” Haas said. “It’s not just about fighting wars — it’s about deterring them before they ever start.”
The 125th FW will commemorate the arrival of the aircraft at the wing this fall, enabling community leaders, retirees and unit members and their families to see firsthand the future of air combat.
With the addition of the F-35 Lightning II, the 125th FW stands ready to lead the next chapter of air combat, safeguard American interests, and reinforce global stability for years to come.
“The arrival of the F-35 marks a historic and transformational moment for the Florida National Guard and the 125th FW,” Elhihi said. “This milestone is a testament to the hard work, dedication and perseverance of countless Airmen, past and present, as well as the unwavering support from our state and local community.”