'Death Rattlers' Return from Last F/A-18 Hornet Deployment

摘要

VMFA-323 now prepares to fly f the F-35B Lightning Ⅱ. In line with the Marine Corps Force Design 2030, transitioning to the F-35 increases the lethality of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), as both F-35 variants provide unprecedented stealth capabilities and flexibility due to their ability to operate from conventional aircraft carriers and land bases. Furthermore, the F-35 will provide the Marine Air-Ground Task Force strategic agility, operational flexibility and tactical supremacy in a high-end conflict. The Death Rattlers' final F/A-18 carrier deployment supported Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 on USS Nimitz (CVN 68), where they conducted operations alongside U.S. 5th and 7th Fleets. VMFA-323 contributed to more than 35,000 flight hours, 14,000 missions supporting tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel and landings, and employment of nearly 250,000 rounds of ammunition while part of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group.