Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln completed fleet carrier qualifications (CQ) for the F-35C Lightning II programme, marking another milestone for the new aircraft. Pilots assigned to the ‘Rough Raiders’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 125 and the “Grim Reapers” of VFA 101 accomplished day and night qualifications with 140 traps in anticipation of F-35C operational testing later this year. The F-35C complements the tactical fighter fleet with a dominant, multirole, next-generation aircraft capable of projecting US power and deterring potential adversaries. By 2025, the Navy’s aircraft carrier air wings are scheduled to consist of F-35Cs, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growlers electronic attack aircraft, E-2D Hawkeye battle management and control aircraft, MH-60R/S helicopters and carrier on board delivery logistics aircraft.