Q&A · 4:31:09-4:31:24

Why drone control could require a two-seat F-35

If controlling drones requires a dedicated weapons officer, the extra crew member would drive a two-seat airframe redesign.

Aircraft Design Aircrew Crewed-Uncrewed Teaming F-35 Lightning II Uncrewed Systems

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Question

If controlling drones requires a weapons officer, would the F-35 need two seats?

Short answer

Yes; a dedicated drone-control officer would require a redesigned two-seat variant.

Notes

A dedicated weapons officer for controlling drones would require a second seat. Providing that seat would mean redesigning the F-35 airframe. The prediction of a future two-seat development is conditional on the mission actually requiring the extra crew member.