Raptors and Lightning: VaANG Airmen bridge the gap between F-22 and F-35
Airmen with the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, and the 192nd Wing, Virginia ANG, pose for a photograph in front of Vermont ANG’s F-35 Lightning II aircraft on the flightline Sept. 25, 2025, at Burlington Air National Guard Base, Burlington, Vermont. The two ANG units partnered to train on F-35 operations, enhancing cross-airframe, multi-capable Airman skills and fifth-generation interoperability. This joint training ensures Airmen can maintain both F-22 Raptor and F-35 aircraft, boosting operational readiness and strengthening collaboration with NATO partners. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Michael Davis)