We Now Know When Navy Aircraft Carriers Will be Armed with F-35s

US Navy leaders have announced that the first-of-its kind carrier-launched F-35C stealth fighter will deploy for its first operational deployment on the USS Carl Vinson -- in 2021. Adm. S.D. Conn, Director, Air Warfare Chief of Naval Operations, told Congress. “Stealth technology and advanced integrated systems enable the F-35C to counter rapidly evolving air-to-air and surface-to-air threats.