The first TR-3 F-35's initial checkout flight comes as the Joint Program Office hunts for a way to accelerate deliveries, perhaps using interim software.
The airplane would be built from a stretched version of the C-130J and allow the president to communicate with nuclear-armed submarines in case of war.
“We currently are paying for a great capability, but we’re currently only getting a good capability fielded,” subcommittee chairman Rep. Rob Wittman said.