VMFA-115 reactivates as Marine Corps’ newest F-35C squadron
- Category
- Military affairs
- Source
- 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing
2nd Marine Aircraft Wing:
"Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. - Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 115, the “Silver Eagles,” officially reactivated as the Marine Corps’ newest operational F-35C Lightning II squadron during a ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026.
The event served as a combined ceremony marking the squadron’s reactivation, assumption of command and senior enlisted leader appointment. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Hugh E. Anderson assumed command of VMFA-115, and Sgt. Maj. Derek B. Carlson assumed responsibility as the command senior enlisted leader.
“Having defended our nation in nearly every major conflict from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam to the Global War on Terror, the Silver Eagles hold an exceptionally proud lineage,” said Lt. Col. Anderson. “It is a profound privilege to lead this squadron into its next chapter with the F-35C. Modernization is about more than just a new airframe; it demands an unrelenting focus on warfighting readiness. Our Marines and Sailors have put in tremendous work to reactivate this squadron, and the Silver Eagles will be ready to project combat power whenever our nation calls.”
The reactivation also marks an official change of home station for VMFA-115. Previously based at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, under Marine Aircraft Group 31, the squadron completed its final deployment with the F/A-18 Hornet in Oct. 2023, before deactivating on Nov. 9, 2023. With its reactivation, VMFA-115 has reorganized under MAG-14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, at MCAS Cherry Point.
The F-35C features reinforced landing gear, folding wingtips, and an arresting hook for catapult launches and arrested recoveries aboard U.S. Navy aircraft carriers. The aircraft carries roughly 50 percent more fuel than the F-35B, delivering an extended combat radius and greater on-station time, while larger internal weapons bays accommodate heavier precision-guided munitions.
VMFA-115 completed its first flight in the F-35C in July 2026 and continues routine flight and maintenance operations as it works toward Safe for Flight certification in early 2027 ahead of Initial Operational Capability.
VMFA-115 is a subordinate unit of Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force."
Source: 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing