APRIL 2, 2025 – The F-35’s advanced capabilities don’t begin in the air, they begin on the ground. Beneath the sleek lines of the F-35A Lightning II. Airmen move with careful precision, sealing seams and smoothing surfaces to restore one of the aircraft’s most powerful features, its stealth.
Airmen from the 48th Equipment Maintenance Squadron low observable flight work to ensure U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces in Africa’s only premier fifth-generation fighter squadrons at RAF Lakenheath remain mission-ready.
“Our job is to ensure that by the time the jet leaves the line, its low observable systems are mission-ready, giving the pilot the assurance they can operate in contested airspace with minimal risk of detection,” said Senior Airman Jadon Anderson, 48th EMS low observable technician.
Low observable maintenance is a specialized field that plays a critical role in sustaining the F-35’s stealth capabilities, enabling the aircraft to strike undetected, evade radar, and enhance the safety of both personnel and equipment.
Unlike traditional maintenance, which focuses on repairing mechanical systems, low observable work requires a combination of technical precision and advanced material knowledge. The goal is to preserve the aircraft’s low signature by restoring surface integrity and maintaining the stealth characteristics essential for operations.
Technicians apply specialized coatings and reseal surfaces with extreme attention to detail, as even minor imperfections can affect how the aircraft is detected. This level of accuracy supports the F-35’s ability to operate effectively in high-threat environments.
“You could have a jet that flies and fights perfectly, but if it lights up on radar, the advantage is gone,” said Tech. Sgt. Samuel Holt, 48th EMS low observable noncommissioned officer in charge. “Without LO, you’re not projecting power, you’re just showing up on someone’s scope. That’s the difference between shaping the battlefield and reacting to it.”
Maintaining a level of precision is especially critical during high-tempo operations. At RAF Lakenheath, the team is supported by a leadership culture that values getting it right over rushing it out.
The importance of their work is directly tied to the 48th Fighter Wing’s operational effectiveness. Without stealth, the F-35 loses a defining capability.
Low observable maintenance also reflects a strong level of trust between the technician and the pilot, as each repair, adjustment, and inspection helps ensure the aircrew can fly into contested areas with confidence and remain undetected. At its core, low observable maintenance isn’t just about hiding the jet; it’s about protecting the person flying it.
“You can’t cut corners in LO,” said Holt. “Every repair is a matter of trust between the maintainer and the pilot. We’re giving them the ability to fly with peace in mind.”
Story by Senior Airman Seleena Muhammad-Ali
48th Fighter Wing