BLUF

The F-35 is known for its stealth and precision; but this article examines how the aircraft can switch to ‘Beast Mode’ by vastly increasing its firepower payload to 22,000 pounds (9980 kg), highlighting the versatility of the aircraft.

Summary

  1. Carries just 5,700 pounds of internal weapons to minimize its radar cross-section.
  2. Once air superiority secured, can deploy external hardpoints, boosting its payload.
  3. Can carry up to 14 AMRAAMs and six 2,000-pound JDAM bombs.
  4. Only negative is Beast Mode cuts operational range in half.
READ: F-35 Beast Mode: How America’s Stealth Jet Becomes a Bomb Truck

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