USAF Makes First F-35 TR-3 Configuration Test Flight

With the Technology Refresh 3 upgrades, a fighter flew to 35,000 feet at nearly the speed of sound.

Kimberly Johnson

Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 03:17 PM ET

Verified

An F-35A takes off from Edwards Air Force Base, California, on January 6, 2023. [Courtesy: F-35 Joint Program Office]

Key Takeaways:

Lockheed Martin F-35 fighters have begun flight testing for significant Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) computational upgrades.
The TR-3 configuration enhances the F-35's computational horsepower for Block 4 modernization, introducing new sensor suites, additional long-range weapons, improved interoperability, and advanced electronic warfare features.
The first test flight, conducted on January 6, verified the aircraft's airworthiness and stability at 35,000 feet and near the speed of sound, kicking off an extensive flight test campaign planned throughout 2023.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Testing is underway for computational upgrades that make it possible for Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) F-35s to fly at 35,000 feet at nearly the speed of sound, according to program officials.

The Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) configuration boosts the fighter’s computational horsepower for Block 4 modernization, and includes new sensor suites, additional long-range precision weapons, increased cross-platform interoperability, and improved electronic warfare features, according to the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO).