Marines receive first F-35 fighter planes

The Marine Corps received its first two F-35 fighters Wednesday, as the program continues to move forward amid the potential for budget cuts.

The Marines’ F-35B version of the plane features the capability for short take-offs and vertical landings, but it’s been plagued by problems and has been the most troubled of the three F-35 variants.

Lockheed Martin announced the two planes were delivered to Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., on Wednesday afternoon after 90-minute flights from Fort Worth, Texas.

The F-35 program is the largest Pentagon weapons system ever, but as its cost continues to grow the program has become a ripe target for critics.

Many have suggested the Marines’ version of the F-35 should be scrapped to help deal with budget cuts at the Pentagon.

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