The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is the most advanced aerial weapon system ever fielded. The 5th generation fighter jet is also the most expensive, spent the longest in development, and involves more partners and assembly in more locations than any other aircraft in history.

It is also the most lethal.

This week, U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Tucker “Cinco” Hamilton, former F-35 test pilot, joins us to explore this aircraft’s developmental legacy and present lethality. Are parts of it really made in 48 of the 50 American states? Did it really lose to an F-16 in dogfighting tests? We cover these topics, and many more, with Cinco and previous guest Dave “Chip” Berke who returns as cohost.

Episode artwork adapted from original photography by Rich Cooper. Bumper music by Jaime Lopez / announcements by Clint Bell. This episode was produced by our friends at The Muscle Car Place Podcast Network.