U.S. Marines Conduct F-35B fighter jet Landing Qualification in Pacific Ocean to Keep Combat Readiness.

On December 5, 2025, the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed F-35B fighter jet deck landing qualifications on USS Boxer in the Pacific, directly boosting readiness and MEU combat power projection.

The U.S. Marine Corps says pilots and deck crews from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) wrapped up a fresh round of F-35B Lightning II fighter jet deck landing qualifications aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer while underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility. Unit officials described the evolution as a routine but essential step that keeps shipborne aviation procedures sharp, particularly as the MEU prepares for a busy operational cycle across the Pacific. The Boxer’s flight deck team conducted concurrent safety checks, recovery drills, and readiness assessments, giving the ship and squadron a realistic pace similar to that of forward-deployed operations.
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U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter jets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 (VMFA-122), assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, are positioned on the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) during operations in the Pacific Ocean on December 5, 2025. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

Deck landing qualifications, or DLQs, certify U.S. Marine pilots to operate from an amphibious ship's moving deck safely. The process tests controlled approaches, touch-and-go maneuvers, and full-stop landings to ensure pilots can handle ship movement, tight landing zones, and challenging visibility. DLQs are required for Marine aviators deploying at sea.

During the training period, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 conducted multiple launch-and-recovery cycles. These repetitions strengthened coordination between pilots, deck crews, and the Boxer’s aviation department, allowing the ship to validate flight deck procedures, communications protocols, and emergency response readiness. The exercise reinforced the ARG-MEU team’s capability to conduct extended maritime operations.

The USS Boxer, a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, is one of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile expeditionary platforms. With a full-length flight deck, hangar, a well deck, and command facilities, it supports Marines in rapid deployment, air operations, and amphibious assaults without relying on land infrastructure.

The F-35B Lightning II fighter jet was built for operation from ships like the Boxer. Its short takeoff and vertical landing allow performance from confined decks. With stealth, advanced sensors, and precision strike, the F-35B gives Marine Expeditionary Units a flexible, survivable 5th-generation asset.

The presence of U.S. naval forces in the Pacific Ocean is a key element in supporting regional stability and deterrence. By maintaining amphibious ready groups at sea, the United States demonstrates its ability to respond to emerging crises, ensure freedom of navigation, and protect vital sea lanes. The capability to project 5th-generation airpower from amphibious ships directly reinforces U.S. defense commitments and deters competitors by showcasing advanced operational readiness and a forward-deployed posture.

For leaders, DLQs are integral to naval aviation readiness, ensuring smooth integration between pilots, deck crews, and command elements for real-world missions, including humanitarian assistance, maritime security, or combat.

Strategically, training aboard the USS Boxer illustrates a commitment to forward presence and the U.S. strategy of integrated, flexible response in the Indo-Pacific. The synergy of Wasp-class ships and F-35B aircraft equips the U.S. with agile power projection and survivable capabilities, enhancing deterrence and reassuring allies against evolving regional threats.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.