USMC F-35Cs Deployment to the Middle East

Yesterday, flight tracking systems recorded a significant deployment mission (known as a “Coronet East”) crossing European airspace and the Mediterranean Sea, heading towards the Middle Eastern theater.

The operation involved the transfer of United States Marine Corps (USMC) fifth-generation fighters, supported by US Air Force (USAF) aerial refueling aircraft.

Formation Details:

• The Fighters: The strike package consisted of four USMC Lockheed Martin F-35Cs, operating under the callsigns MAZDA 41-44.
• The Tankers: Logistical support for the continental crossing was provided by two USAF Boeing KC-135R Stratotankers, which “dragged” the fighters along the route. Specifically:
  • Callsign GOLD 97 (Reg. 58-0063)
  • Callsign GOLD 98 (Reg. 58-0117)

The Route: As shown by the radar tracks, the main formation departed from the United Kingdom, crossed France, and entered the western Mediterranean. From there, the flight proceeded eastwards over the central and eastern Mediterranean, heading directly towards the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility (presumably towards allied bases in Jordan or the Israel area).

The tanker GOLD 97, completed its refueling support role for the mission, is heading back to the UK, flying northbound from the eastern Mediterranean through Greece, the Balkans, and Central Europe (Hungary/Slovakia area).